Phosphorus was isolated as a specific and separate element in
1669 by a German alchemist named Hennig Brand. An integral part
of life and health, this mineral element is essential to the
structure and function of the body.
The mineral phosphorus is found in all living cells. It is best
known for its role in the creation of bones and teeth. It helps
the body to absorb and make use of calcium and together with the
mineral magnesium, Vitamin D and Vitamin C, it serves in the
formation of the hard surfaces of the bones and teeth.
Phosphorus role in the muscular system is of great importance
for it helps the heart in beating strongly and steadily. It is
specifically associated with the smooth and regular contraction
of the body’s muscles as well as with the health of the nerves
and their ability to communicate. In addition to being an
important facet in the nerves of the body, phosphorus also is
essential to the correct formation of cell membranes and the
proper creation of genetic material.
Phosphorus works with the vitamins that make up a powerful group
most popularly known as the Vitamin B complex in the
transformation of nutrients to energy. In fact, thiamin, or
Vitamin B1, cannot be utilized by the body without the presence
of this mineral which means that phosphorus also has a role in
the health of the digestive system as well as in that of the
nervous system. It also serves in the regulation of kidney
function and helps to keep the body’s PH levels where they
should be. Iodine and zinc, which both play an important role in
the maturation and function of the reproductive system need
phosphorus in order to be properly utilized by the body.
Because of its role in the health and functioning of so many of
the body’s most important systems, a deficiency in phosphorus
can have a broad range of negative effects on the health of mind
and body. Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency include retarded
growth in children, poor formation of teeth and bones which can
lead to bone pain and fragility, joint stiffness and pain,
irregular breathing patterns, weight problems, weakness and
numbness of limbs. Mental symptoms include anxiety, fearfulness,
irritability and anorexia.
Dedicated attention to proper nutrition is one of the most
important things you can do for the overall health and well
being of your mind and body. The functioning of the body and the
mind, including cognitive function and emotional stability, is
based upon numerous chemical reactions and interaction in the
body. These chemicals depend a great deal on the nutrients you
consume and the balance of these many chemicals and substances
is very delicate. Optimum performance of body and mind depends
on this balance being maintained.
To be sure that your body gets the proper amount of daily
phosphorus it needs to function properly, it is therefore
essential to consult with a licensed nutritionalist or dietician
to help you in mapping out your daily diet. Nutritional
supplements can also provide a safe and reliable means of
ensuring that this delicate balance is maintained and that the
body has the nutrients it needs to carryout the many complex
chemical functions that result in the health and proper
functioning of the body and the mind.
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