Concept about Phosphorus – This book covers the entire syllabus of “Nutrition and Dietetics” prescribed by BNMC-for all Diploma in Nursing Science and Midwifery students. We tried to accommodate latest information and topics. This book is examination friendly setup according to the teachers’ lectures and examination’s questions. At the end of the book previous university questions are given. We hope in touch with the book students’ knowledge will be upgraded and flourished. The unique way of presentation may make your reading of the book a pleasurable experience.
Concept about Phosphorus
Adult human contains 400 to 700 gm of phosphorus. It is mostly present in body fluids, cells and in enzymes. Phosphorus is essential for the formation of bones and teeth and phospholipids. Phosphorus is commonly found in the food. The phosphorus is absorbed as inorganic salt. Phosphorus is absorbed in the small intestine as inorganic phosphates.
(Ref: Onila Salin’s Essential nutrition/1/42)
Sources of phosphorus:
1. Eggs
2. Meat
3. Fish
4. Cereal
5. Milk
6. Milk products
(Ref: T. K. Indrani/1/50)
Functions of phosphorus:
1. For the calcification of bones and metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats phosphorus is required.
2. It acts as a buffer system in the body.
3. Storage and release of energy is controlled by phosphorus compound.
4. Phosphorus is required for the absorption of calcium.
5. Absorption of phosphorus is prevented by excess consumption of iron, magnesium and aluminum in the diet.
6. It is an essential constituent of nucleic acid and nucleoproteins.
(Ref: Onila Salin’s Essential nutrition/1/42)
Deficiency of phosphorus:
- Phosphorus deficiency is characterized by
- Weakness.
- Lack of appetite.
- Fatigue.
- Muscle pain.
Daily requirement of phosphorus:
- In case of adult: 400-600 mg
- During pregnancy and lactation: 1000-1200 mg
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