Phosphorus: the Unknown Mineral

Phosphorus was originally called Lucifer, Latin for "carrier of light." Today the word phosphorus is derived from the Greek word meaning "light-bearer." Phosphorescent qualities are inherent in many life forms, such as the glow worm and firefly. The "glowing" nature of phosphorus is perhaps the reason it is synonymous with human intelligence-the medium for coupling soul with matter. In fact, some believe that phosphorus in the body is the "aura," and claims have been made that the body's spirit resides in its phosphorus reserves.

Regardless of the spiritual aspect of the matter, phosphorus is a very important mineral physically. Human bodies typically contain about 800 milligrams of phosphorus in the body, with 700 milligrams in the bones. Phosphate is extremely important in bone mineralization. It also makes bones more dense. Eating right will ensure that you are getting the proper amount and type of phosphorus needed. For example, the type of phosphorus that is beneficial to bones is often found in vegetables. Also, studies show that for about two hours following the consumption of two to four ounces of sugar, there is often so little phosphorus in the blood that calcification, or bone formation, cannot take place. In fact, high consumption of sugar leads to low phosphorus, which in turn leads to bone destruction, a major result of which is osteoporosis.

A different type of phosphorus is also vital to the body, but is used by the brain and nervous system. This type of phosphorus is found in dairy, eggs, meat, and fish. From animal proteins, we also receive lecithin, a nerve fat that carries phosphorus. Sensory seats in the brain, nerve networks, the automic nervous system, nerves, ganglia, and sensory nerves: all these require phosphorus to function normally. Each thought one has requires phosphorus to complete. Once phosphorus is depleted in the body, many changes occur in the mental and emotional state of a man. One may become irritable or apprehensive; have a decreased attention span; or may suffer from neuralgia, neuritis, neurosis, neurasthenia, or other nervous problems. Severed deficiency may cause seizures, comas, or even death.

Phosphorus plays a vital role in each and every cell in the body, beginning with the outer layer. Phosphorus is a major component of cell membranes. Phosphorus is an essential component in interrelationships with proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to produce energy. Phosphorus also builds and repairs tissues and is vital in the process of cell division.

Phosphorus is a mineral which is often found working with other substances. Many enzymes, as well as the B vitamins, are activated only in the presence of phosphorus. Phosphorus unites well with iron, potassium, sodium, magnesium, and calcium to form compounds essential to life. Calcium, magnesium, and sodium, when combined with phosphorus, form the most important of these blends.

Patients with diabetic ketoacidosis, urinary loss of phosphorus due to kidney malfunction and gastrointestinal malabsorption diseases (such as Crohn's disease, Celiac disease, and short bowel syndrome) should beware of a possible phosphorus deficiency, as should alcoholics. Also, patients with long-term use of antacids which contain magnesium and aluminum may have a phosphorus deficiency. Those with deficiency are likely also deficient in potassium, magnesium, and zinc. Immobilization, such as is found in patients in nursing homes, results in losses of phosphorus; and a continuously high fever will "burn out" phosphorus, as it has a low melting point.
However, most Americans do not have to worry about a deficiency in phosphorus. Actually, with the switch from big meals to snack foods, phosphorus intake has increased and most Americans are getting the 800-1500 milligrams (8-1.5 grams) recommended daily. Absorption is not a problem, either. Seventy percent of the phosphorus ingested is absorbed in the duodenum. Minerals such as iron, magnesium, and aluminum interfere with absorption, yet still there is no need to worry about phosphorus intake.

In fact, excess phosphorus in the body is much more likely than a deficiency. Those who consume too much phosphorus suffer physically and mentally. The lungs and kidneys especially are damaged, and their efficiency reduced. Excess phosphorus also causes sleepwalking, volatile emotions, and an overworked mind. High altitude; breeziness; fresh, outdoor air; proper exercise; and abundant oxygen are essential to a recovery from excess phosphorus.