What is phosphorus?
Phosphorus is a particularly abundant mineral in the human body. About 85% of the phosphorus in a human body is found in teeth and bones. But phosphorus is also useful for blood acidity (pH): it helps neutralize excess acid. Phosphorus also helps to store and create the energy our body needs. It is thus known to increase physical performance and endurance. Present in the RNA and DNA molecules, phosphorus is necessary for the growth of human beings.
Phosphorus deficiency can cause sensory disturbances, weakened bones or heart problems. People most exposed to a lack of phosphorus are those who consume too much alcohol, suffer from kidney disease, anorexia or dysfunction of the parathyroid gland. In contrast, an excess can cause kidney failure or hormonal disorder.

What are our phosphorus requirements?
Every day, we evacuate phosphorus by natural means. Therefore, care must be taken to absorb the equivalent of these losses. It is advisable to consume 750 mg of phosphorus per day for an adult. A growing child (between 9 and 18 years old) needs 1250 mg.
In general, protein-rich foods are the best sources of phosphorus. Lactose, pumpkin or squash seeds, beef liver, canned sardines or cooked lentils are rich in phosphorus.