Phosphorus

Function

Formation of cells, bones and teeth, maintains acid-base balance, important to the metabolism of fat and carbohydrates

Deficiency

Loss of appetite, anemia, muscle weakness, bone pain, rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults, infection, numbness and tingling of the extremities, difficulty walking

Food sources

Egg, milk, meat, fish, soya beans, soya products, pulses and wheat bran.

Phosphorus is widespread in food. That is why deficiency is usually only seen in cases of near-total starvation.

Toxic dose – symptoms

Lack of calcium, increased fat level in blood, problems with circulation

AIs (Adequate Intakes)

Infants 0-6 months 7-12 months

Milligrams per Day 100 275

RDAs (Recommended Dietary Allowances)

Children 1-3 years 4-8 years	Milligrams per Day 460 500
Males 9-13 years 14-18 years 19-30 years 31-50 years 50-70 years > 70 years	- 1250 1250 700 700 700 700
Females 9-13 years 14-18 years 19-30 years 31-50 years 50-70 years > 70 years	- 1250 1250 700 700 700 700
Pregnancy < 19 years 19-30 years 31-50 years	- 1250 700 700
Lactation < 19 years 19-30 years 31-50 years	- 1250 700 700

Source: USDA Dietary Reference Intakes