Phosphorous is one of the very essential minerals in nutrition.
On an average 900 gms of phosphorous is present in human body and more than 80% in teeth and bones.
The rest of the mineral is present inside the body cells.
Very small quantity is present in circulation.
Many co-enzymes and enzymes contain phosphorous.
Cell membranes are made up of proteins and phospholipids.
DNA and RNA contain this mineral in the nucleic acids.
Inside cells glucose undergoes phosphorylation for metabolism and release of energy.
Phosphorous is easily absorbed in the intestine.
Excess this mineral is excreted as phosphate ion in urine.
Phosphorous is available in most of the natural foods, both of plant and animal origin.
Lowered levels of this mineral are encountered in malnutrition and impaired absorption.
This disorder is called hypophosphatemia with symptoms like impaired function of muscles and nerves, bone loss, poor appetite and weakness.
Phosphate absorption can decrease, if antacids containing aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate and anticonvulsants are excessively used.
In the cases of renal insufficiency or failure increased levels of this mineral are encountered.
Excess of serum levels of this mineral can affect calcium balance and vitamin D activity.
Excess phosphorous can also cause soft tissue calcification and diarrhea.
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