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Overview of Phosphate's Role in the Body

By

James L. Lewis III

, MD, Brookwood Baptist Health and Saint Vincent’s Ascension Health, Birmingham

Reviewed/Revised Sep 2023
VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION

Bone contains about 85% of the body’s phosphate. The rest is located primarily inside cells, where it is involved in energy production.

Phosphate is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth. Phosphate is also used as a building block for several important substances, including those used by the cell for energy, cell membranes, and DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid).

The body obtains phosphate from foods. Foods that are high in phosphate include milk, egg yolks, chocolate, and soft drinks. To maintain a normal level of phosphate in the blood, adults need to consume 700 milligrams a day.

Phosphate is excreted from the body in urine and sometimes stool. How much phosphate is in stool varies, depending on how much is not absorbed from food.

The level of phosphate in the blood may be

More Information

The following English language resource provides information that may be useful. THE MANUAL is not responsible for the content of this resource.

  • National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements: Phosphorus Fact Sheet for Consumers: provides a general overview of phosphorus, including its role in the body and daily nutrition requirements

NOTE: This is the Consumer Version. DOCTORS: VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION
VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION
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