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Phosphorus

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Introduction

Phosphorus is an essential mineral found in meat, beans, and dairy. It has been used to strengthen bones and ease pain caused by osteoporosis. Phosphorus has also been used to improve athletic performance. It can be taken as a pill, powder, or tincture.

Dosages

The recommended daily dietary allowance is 700 mg per day for adults

What Research Shows

Not Enough Data to Assess

Preterm infants1

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It is likely safe to take phosphorus in small doses. Long-term use may not be safe. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to take large doses. This may be very unsafe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

References►

1. Harding JE, Wilson J, et al. Calcium and phosphorus supplementation of human milk for preterm infants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017 Feb 26;2:CD003310.

Last reviewed July 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC
Last Updated: 5/1/2020

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