Phosphorus is synonymous with intelligence. Phosphorus is found in the nucleus of each cell in the human body, is found in body fluids and in solid tissue. A person weighing about 150 pounds contains approximately two pounds of phosphorus in their body. Phosphorus is the nutrient that comprises the outer bone and combines with several other elements such as iron, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium and calcium. These phosphates are essential to animal and plant life. {1}Phosphorus is necessary in the synthesis of RNA and DNA and it is important for bone and teeth construction.{1}

Phosphorus improves bone density and nutrition of nervous system tissue. When supplied in proper quantity phosphorus enhances the reproductive organs, autonomic nervous system, ganglia, brain and other nerve networks. In conjunction with other elements it can strengthen tissue integrity, function and metabolism. The proper amounts of phosphorus ensure a balance of the acid/alkaline ration in the digestive juices, blood and the distribution of liquid throughout the tissues. {2}Plasma phosphorus functions as a buffer to maintain the delicate acid-base balance in the body.{2} It increases the number of red blood corpuscles and improves tissue nutrition.

Studies have shown that when there is strenuous mental activity there is a greater presence of phosphorus in the urine. {3}The higher intellectual capacity depends on phosphorus psychic perceptions, idealistic tendencies, humanitarianism, philanthropy, the subjective functions of the brain, physical brain sensations (especially taste and touch).{3} This leads us to the understanding that phosphorus is essential for brain activity.

There is a distinct difference between the phosphorus needed by the bones from the phosphorus needed by the brain. Phosphorus for the brain comes from meat, dairy and fish whereas phosphorus for the bones comes from fruits and vegetables. Phosphorus is vital in synthesizing lecithin and cerebrin, which are both needed by the brain. Phosphorus compounds like lecithin are found everywhere in the tissues, lymph, and other of the body as well as in the white and gray matter of brain and nerve tissue. Phosphorus stimulates hair growth and prevents the blood from becoming too acid or alkaline. It is also necessary for the synthesis of the RNA and DNA.

White blood corpuscles are comprised of approximately 90% water, nucleo-albumin and cell globulin rich proteins, which contain up to 10% phosphorus. The deficiency of phosphorus causes a lowering of metabolism and compromises health. One of the important phosphates and concern in our society today is calcium phosphate, which is essential to the body for osteosis, bone building and repair, and bone metabolism. Lack of calcium and phosphorus is indicated in osteoporosis. It should be noted that calcium and Vitamin D are essential for proper phosphorus function. Phosphorus can be depleted by the intake of aluminum, sugar, magnesium and iron, salts from cookware, mineral oil and tobacco. The most common sign of phosphorus deficiency is osteoporosis.

Phosphorus Function in the Body:

Necessary for the reproductive systems

Essential for bone and brain

Vital for muscle tissue

Necessary for growth

Stimulates sexual function

Present in the white blood cells

Essential nerve nutrient

Some Symptoms of Phosphorus Deficiency.

Please note that each person manifests different symptoms.

Slow oxidation

Fatigue

Brain softening

Morbidity

Numbness

Little or no confidence

Fearfulness

Sensitivity to noise

Bone density loss

Paranoia

Agoraphobia

Digestive and Heart problems

Footnotes:

{1.} Donald Lepore, N.D., The Ultimate Healing System The Illustrated Guide to Muscle Testing & Nutrition, (Woodland Publishing, Inc., 1985) page 69.

{2.} Robert Garrison, Jr., M.A., R.Ph. & Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D., The Nutrition Desk Reference, Third Edition, (Keats Publishing, Inc., 1995), pg. 165.

{3.} Bernard Jensen, Ph.D., The Chemistry of Man, (Bernard Jensen, 1983) page 276.

Copied with permission from the Information & Reference Guide by Annette Hasalone-Eve, N.D.

Note:

Phosphorus benefits and/or deficiency symptoms are generic for the mineral. No product claims are being made or implied.