Phosphorus

Question 1

What is phosphorus in the body?

Answer 1

Usually present as phosphates in biological systems in organic and inorganic forms

Organic forms include phospholipids

Highly concentrated in ICF

Question 2

How is phosphorus absorbed?

Answer 2

70% absorbed actively and passively in small intestine

Calcitriol enhances absorption

Phytate in beans and legumes decreases absorption

Question 3

What is the function of phosphate?

Answer 3

• major component in teeth and bones
• buffering of acids
• energy production (ATP)
• main ICF anion
• all phosphorylation reactions
• phospholipids in cell membranes

Question 4

What is caused by a phosphate deficiency?

Answer 4

Hypophosphoataemia

• respiratory failure
• osteomalacia
• anorexia

Question 5

What is caused by phosphate toxicity?

Answer 5

Hyperphosphataemia

• occurs in poor kidney function
• results in vascular calcification and progression of kidney disease

Question 6

What are good sources of phosphorus?

Answer 6

• fish
• yoghurt
• pork
• baked beans