Phosphorus was isolated as a specific
and separate element in 1669, by a German alchemist named Hennig
Brand, and is found in all living cells. An integral part of life
and health, this mineral element is essential to the structure
and function of much of the body.
The mineral phosphorus is best known as a nutrient for its role
in the creation of bones and teeth. It helps the body to absorb
and make use of calcium, and with the mineral magnesium, Vitamin
D and Vitamin C, it serves in the formation of the hard surfaces
of the bones and teeth.
It also has a role in the working of the body’s muscular
system and thus, is important to the beating of the heart. It is
specifically associated with the smooth and regular contraction
of the body’s muscles, as well as with the health of the
nerves and their ability to communicate. In addition to being
an important facet in the nerves of the body, phosphorus
also is essential
to the correct formation of cell membranes and the proper
creation of genetic material.
Phosphorus works with the vitamins that make
up powerful group known as the Vitamin B complex in the
transformation of nutrients
to energy. In fact, thiamin, or Vitamin B1, cannot be used
by the body without the presence of phosphorus, which means
that this
mineral also has a role in the health of the digestive system,
as well as in that of the nervous system. It also serves
in the regulation of kidney function and helps to keep
the body’s
PH levels where they should be. Iodine and zinc, which both
play an important role in the maturation and function of
the reproductive
system need phosphorus in order to be properly utilized by
the body.
Because of its role in the health and functioning
of so many of the body’s most important systems, a deficiency
in phosphorus can have a broad range of negative effects
on the health of mind
and body. Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency include retarded
growth in children, poor formation of teeth and bones which
can lead to
bone pain and fragility, joint stiffness and pain, irregular
breathing patterns, weight problems, weakness and numbness
of limbs. Mental
symptoms include anxiety, fearfulness, irritability and anorexia.
Dedicated attention to proper nutrition is one of the most important
things you can do for the overall health and well being of your
mind and body. The functioning of the body and the mind, including
cognitive function and emotional stability, is based upon numerous
chemical reactions and interaction in the body. These chemicals
depend a great deal on the nutrients you consume, and the balance
of these many chemicals and substances is very delicate. Optimum
performance of body and mind depends on this balance being maintained.
Nutritional supplements can provide a safe and reliable means
of ensuring that this delicate balance is maintained and that the
body has the nutrients it needs to carryout the many complex chemical
functions that result in the health and proper functioning of the
body and the mind.
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