Phosphorus
Phosphorus is an essential mineral, stored mostly as phosphate in bones and teeth. It occurs in dairy, meat, fish and grains.
Kidney disease changes the calculation
As kidney function falls, phosphate excretion becomes less efficient. Phosphorus retention can contribute to the mineral and bone disorder associated with chronic kidney disease. 1
Why the numbers can look confusing
DGE notes that a nutritional upper limit has not been established in Europe. Separately, EFSA’s 2019 additive assessment set an acceptable daily intake of 40 mg phosphorus per kilogram of body weight from all dietary sources. That safety benchmark is not an intake target and does not apply to people with moderately or severely reduced kidney function. 2 3
More can cause problems
DGE reports that high-dose phosphorus supplements above 750 mg daily can cause diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and notes BfR’s recommendation against using phosphorus in supplements. Aluminum-containing antacids can instead lower phosphate absorption and, with prolonged use, contribute to deficiency. 1 2
Adverse findings
Ratings where the reported effect was unwanted. Each lists the studies behind it.
For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.
Sources
- FAQ Phosphor DGE
- EFSA issues new advice on phosphates EFSA, 2019