• our bones and teeth (dentin and enamel) are built of calcium phosphate based structures (hydroxyapatite): this accounts for 85% of the phosphorus in our bodies
  • phosphorus is also essential for the production of collagen, the fibre which makes up ligaments and tendons, as well as contributing to bone structure, cartilage, skin and the eye
  • the structure of each of our cells is based on phospholipid membranes
  • the transfer of energy within cells, on which depend all body functions, from thoughtthrough to muscle function and motion, is based on adenosine tri- / di- phosphate metabolism (ADP, ATP)
  • our genetic material DNA is based on a deoxyribose – phosphate chain
  • phosphorus is a key component of many proteins
  • important for acid-base regulation in our bodies (pH balance)
  • needed to produce myelin, the covering of nerve and brain cells which allows impulsesto transmit signals (1/3 of the brain’s dry weight is phosphorus fatty acids)
  • phospholipids in the blood stop fats depositing on artery walls, and so prevent heart disease
  • necessary to enable the body to use certain vitamins (A, D, E, K)
  • phosphates are necessary for many other biological processes within our bodies

Phosphorus content:

Human body
Bones12%
Teeth8%
Brain0.3%
Overall1 – 1.2%
Plants
Plant tissues0.05 – 1%