Fitness
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Phosphorus Deficiency?

Daniel Liden
Daniel Liden

Phosphorus deficiency is a condition in which an individual fails to consume or properly use the amount of phosphorus necessary to stay healthy. Phosphorus is a mineral that is very important in the proper formation of bones and teeth; it is also involved in a wide variety of other chemical reactions throughout the body. Phosphorus is very common in many different kinds of food, so phosphorus deficiency tends to be quite rare. It is not, however, impossible, as there are some medical conditions that prevent the body from absorbing the correct amount of phosphorus. Most of the problems associated with this deficiency involve development and maintenance problems with muscles and bones.

Though it is rare, phosphorus deficiency can occur in several ways. For example, phosphorus is generally present in adequate amounts in plants that are commonly used for food. In some cases, however, the soil the plants are grown in is deficient in phosphorus; this can lead to a deficiency in phosphorus in populations that depend on these specific crops for food. In most cases, fertilizers are used to compensate for the lack of minerals in the soil. In some cases, however, this is not practical and other factors prevent proper mineral absorption. For patients with medical conditions that prevent or inhibit the absorption of phosphorus, doctors can prescribe supplements and dietary changes to help correct the problem.

Phosphorus is important in the formation of teeth.
Phosphorus is important in the formation of teeth.

Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency usually involve issues relating to the growth and development of muscles and bones. Weight loss and decreases in bone density commonly result from a deficiency in phosphorus; muscle weakness and breathing problems are also not uncommon. Deficiency can also increase susceptibility to some diseases that can cause a significant amount of damage. In particularly severe cases, breathing problems, heart problems, and nervous system disorders can begin to appear; if left untreated, this can lead to death. Common early signs of deficiency include increased stress, numbness of the skin, fatigue, bone problems, and a variety of other uncomfortable and unpleasant issues.

A phosphorus deficiency may result in muscle weakness.
A phosphorus deficiency may result in muscle weakness.

In general, it is easy to avoid this deficiency because phosphorus is very common in many different kinds of food. Meats and dairy foods, for example, contain plenty of phosphorus, and adequate amounts of meat and dairy in one's diet are typically sufficient to prevent deficiency in people who can absorb phosphorus normally. Consuming too much dairy, meat, and other sources of phosphorus can actually lead to phosphorus toxicity, which can lead to twitching and, in severe cases, to convulsions. This is also rare, though, as excess phosphorus is almost always excreted in the urine before it can cause any harm.

Discussion Comments

fify

People with phosphorus deficiency should eat meat. I guess if you are a vegetarian, that might be a problem. If you don't have any dietary restrictions for fish, salmon is also high in phosphorus. Lentils and nuts are also great alternatives. Especially peanuts, almonds and cashews are good sources for phosphorus.

I personally love humus because it has both chick peas and tahini in it which is made from sesame seeds. Both have good amounts of phosphorus. So even if you have dietary restrictions, you can have these foods. I also prefer whole wheat bread and bran muffins over white flour because it has phosphorus as well.

burcinc

Homeopathy sometimes prescribes phosphorus for anxiety, dizziness, headaches, runny nose and vision problems. I was also recommended to take phosphorus supplements for stomach ulcer.

I don't have phosphorus deficiency though. My blood tests came back normal and my bones and teeth are very healthy, I eat a lot of meat and dairy products.

I'm curious, should I take phosphorus supplements for my stomach, even though I seem to have enough of it? There won't be any harm in it since the excess will be thrown out of the body right?

And can phosphorus deficiency really cause or intensify anxiety or contribute to depression? I never thought that there would be psychological symptoms too.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Phosphorus is important in the formation of teeth.
      By: japolia
      Phosphorus is important in the formation of teeth.
    • A phosphorus deficiency may result in muscle weakness.
      By: Mykola Velychko
      A phosphorus deficiency may result in muscle weakness.
    • A phosphorus deficiency may result in weight loss.
      By: V&P Photo Studio
      A phosphorus deficiency may result in weight loss.
    • Breathing problems may occur as a result of a phosphorus deficiency.
      By: pathdoc
      Breathing problems may occur as a result of a phosphorus deficiency.
    • Meats contain phosphorus.
      By: podm
      Meats contain phosphorus.
    • Dairy products like eggs, milk, and cheese contain plenty of phosphorus.
      By: draghicich
      Dairy products like eggs, milk, and cheese contain plenty of phosphorus.