Phosphorus (P)

Phosphorus is an essential mineral for human health that plays a crucial role in many processes in the body. It is a non-metallic element that is found in many forms, including inorganic phosphate, organic phosphate, and phospholipids. In this article, we will explore the importance of phosphorus for human health, its role in the environment and industry, and some interesting facts about this element.

Introduction to Phosphorus

Phosphorus is a chemical element with the symbol P and atomic number 15. It is a highly reactive element that is essential for life. Phosphorus is found in many forms, including inorganic phosphate, organic phosphate, and phospholipids. It is an important component of DNA, RNA, and ATP, which are essential for cellular metabolism.

Phosphorus in Food

Phosphorus is found in many foods, including dairy products, meat, fish, poultry, nuts, and legumes. The recommended daily intake of phosphorus for adults is 700 mg per day. Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency include loss of appetite, muscle weakness, and bone pain. Excess phosphorus intake can lead to kidney damage, muscle cramps, and seizures.

Below is the table of phosphorus content in foods in grams and the percentage of daily requirement for adults in English. The products are sorted in descending order of the percentage of daily requirement for adults.

Product	Phosphorus content (g)	% of daily requirement for children 1-3 years	% of daily requirement for children 4-8 years	% of daily requirement for children 9-18 years	% of daily requirement for adults
Almonds, roasted	484.0	3227%	2420%	1613%	807%
Parmesan cheese	123.6	824%	618%	412%	206%
Pumpkin seeds, roasted	123.4	823%	617%	411%	206%
Sunflower seeds, roasted	115.6	771%	578%	385%	193%
Milk, 2% fat	247.0	1647%	1235%	823%	412%
Oatmeal, cooked	180.0	1200%	900%	600%	300%
Soybeans, boiled	80.0	533%	400%	267%	133%
Whole grain bread	80.0	533%	400%	267%	133%
White rice, cooked	68.0	453%	340%	227%	114%
Potatoes, boiled	57.0	380%	285%	190%	95%
Salmon, fried	22.7	151%	113%	75%	38%
Beef liver, fried	26.7	178%	133%	89%	44%
Eggs, fried	86.7	578%	433%	289%	145%
Beef, fried	18.5	123%	92%	62%	31%
Chicken, fried	13.8	92%	69%	46%	23%

Note: The percentage of daily requirement is based on the recommended daily intake of phosphorus for adults, which is 700 mg.

Phosphorus and Health

Phosphorus plays a crucial role in many processes in the body, including bone health, metabolism, and cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that adequate phosphorus intake can help prevent osteoporosis and other bone diseases. Some studies also suggest that phosphorus may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Scientific Research and Discoveries

Research has shown that phosphorus plays an important role in metabolism and energy exchange in the body. Some studies link phosphorus deficiency to an increased risk of developing osteoporosis and other bone diseases. Other studies suggest that phosphorus may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

In 1669, German alchemist Hennig Brand discovered phosphorus, which he obtained from urine. In 1845, French chemist Henri-Victor Regnault discovered that phosphorus is an essential element for plant growth. In 1908, American biochemist Frederick Hopkins was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his research on phosphorus and its role in metabolism.

Phosphorus and Industry

Phosphorus is used in many industrial applications, including the production of fertilizers, detergents, and flame retardants. However, the industrial use of phosphorus can have negative effects on the environment, including water pollution and eutrophication. Measures to reduce the negative impact of industrial phosphorus use include recycling and reducing the use of phosphorus in detergents.

Interesting Facts about Phosphorus

• Phosphorus is the 11th most abundant element in the Earth’s crust.
• Phosphorus is highly reactive and can spontaneously ignite in air.
• Phosphorus is used in the production of fireworks, matches, and other pyrotechnics.
• Phosphorus is an important component of DNA, RNA, and ATP, which are essential for cellular metabolism.

Conclusion

Phosphorus is an essential mineral for human health that plays a crucial role in many processes in the body. Adequate phosphorus intake can help prevent many diseases, including osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. However, excess phosphorus intake can be harmful to health. The industrial use of phosphorus can have negative effects on the environment, but measures can be taken to reduce its impact. Further research is needed to explore the full potential of phosphorus for human health and industry.