Health BENEFITS of Phosphorus:
- aids in proper calcium absorption
- helps build and repair bones and teeth
- supports proper nerve function and muscle contraction
- helps activate the B vitamins for energy production
- supports a normal heart rhythm
- helps the kidneys filter out waste
- aids in maintaining proper blood PH levels
Foods HIGH in Phosphorus:
- almonds
- broccoli
- buckwheat
- cashews
- chia seeds
- chicken
- eggs
- green peas
- hemp seeds
- lentils
- millet
- mushrooms
- nutmeg
- oats
- pecans
- potato
- pumpkin seeds
- quinoa
- sea vegetables
- salmon
- sardines
- scallops
- shrimp
- soybeans
- turkey
- tuna
- white beans
- wheat germ
- yogurt
Things to KNOW About Phosphorus:
Phosphorus, along with the other five essential minerals (calcium, chloride, magnesium, potassium, and sodium), are also classified as electrolytes, chemicals that conduct electricity when mixed with water. The electricity generated by electrolytes helps with the communication between the cells and supports many bodily functions.
Electrolytes are responsible for maintaining water balance in the body by monitoring the balance of fluids inside the cells (intracellular) and outside the cells (extracellular). Maintaining fluid balance between these two environments is critically important for hydration, nutrient absorption, heart function, nerve impulses, muscle contractions, blood pressure, brain function, blood pH levels, and detoxification.
Staying hydrated and eating foods high in essential minerals will ensure that you maintain a healthy electrolyte balance. An electrolyte imbalance can cause a wide variety of symptoms, including dehydration, fatigue, muscle cramps, weakness, thirst, nausea, confusion, irregular heartbeat, or stomach pain. Consequently, it's important to replenish the electrolytes lost through extensive exercise or heavy sweating.
Phosphorus is the second most plentiful mineral in the human body after calcium, making up about 1% of your body weight. Phosphorus binds together with calcium to produce strong bones and teeth. As a result, 85% of the phosphorus in the body is found in bones and teeth.