Phosphorus Deficiency

What is Phosphorous Deficiency?

Phosphorus is the second most abundant element in the human body and serves various functions. Deficiency of this micronutrient in our diet can cause health issues.

It is a part of several molecular components in the body, such as our DNA, and is also contained in the energy molecules formed in our body. A majority of the phosphorus in the body is contained in the bones, while the remaining is distributed throughout the soft tissues. Phosphorus is required by the body for cell growth and breaking down of food to obtain energy. It is necessary for bone health.

What are the main associated signs and symptoms?

The symptoms of phosphorus deficiency include:

• Poor bone development.
• Difficulty in walking.
• Weakness.
• Anaemia.
• Rapid weight loss.
• Oral infections.
• Joint pain.
• Decreased appetite.
  
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The deficiency of phosphorus in infants and growing children can have detrimental effects and may lead to bone deformities and chronic illnesses.

What are the main causes?

The primary cause of phosphorus deficiency is a poor diet, which only consists of junk food with little nutrition. Phosphorus is contained in several natural food items and therefore phosphorus deficiency is not very common.

The intake of certain medications on a regular basis can interfere with its absorption. These medications include antacids.

However, magnesium deficiency can also result in poor absorption of phosphorus in the body, leading to phosphorus deficiency. The recommended daily intake of phosphorus for adults (as per RDI) is 1000 mg/day.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Phosphorus deficiency may be detected by the doctor through a blood test and the presence of the signs and symptoms.

To overcome phosphorus deficiency, the doctor will advise diet changes. Certain foods that are especially high in phosphorus include

• Nuts
• Beans
• Whole grains
• Cheese
• Milk
• Legumes
• Pumpkin seeds
• Fish

Managing the phosphorus deficiency through diet changes in a gradual manner is often the best approach. However, the doctor may even recommend multivitamin supplements.

1. National Health and Medical Research Council. Phosphorus. Australian Government: Department of Health
2. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: US National Library of Medicine; Phosphorus in diet.
3. Institute of Medicine (US) Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference Intakes. Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 1997. 5, Phosphorus
4. Linus Pauling Institute [Internet]. Corvallis: Oregon State University; Phosphorus.
5. VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. Phosphorus. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs,Washington DC.