Phosphorus

Major mineral · energy & bone

What does Phosphorus do in your body?

The second most abundant mineral in the body. It's in bone, in DNA, and in ATP — the cell's energy currency.

What does Phosphorus do?

Partners with calcium in bone; forms the 'P' in ATP; makes up the backbone of DNA and the phospholipids in membranes.

Where does Phosphorus act in the body?

Bones and teeth, every cell (ATP, membranes, DNA). Kidneys regulate it.

Which foods contain Phosphorus?

Dairy, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, whole grains. Phosphate additives in processed foods and colas add more.

How much Phosphorus do adults need?

RDA: 700 mg for adults. Upper limit: 4,000 mg (to age 70).

What happens with too little Phosphorus?

Rare from diet; seen with some medical conditions and long-term antacid overuse.

Can you get too much Phosphorus?

Mainly a concern with reduced kidney function, where high blood phosphate harms bones and blood vessels.

What does Phosphorus interact with?

Works with calcium and vitamin D. Aluminum-containing antacids bind it.

What is known and unknown about Phosphorus?

Roles are established. Effects of high phosphate-additive intake in healthy people are still being studied.

Evidence & sources

• The adult RDA for phosphorus is 700 mg/day; the UL is 4,000 mg. Evidence: regulatory. Known: Set by the Institute of Medicine (1997). Unknown: — Source: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, Phosphorus — Health Professional Fact Sheet (Current revision).

Connected topics

• Calcium
• Bone Tissue
• Energy Metabolism
• Kidneys
• Milk

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General education only, not medical advice. Drafted Oct 2026 · pending qualified expert review.