GLOSSARY

Phosphorus Reference Table

US/Canadian adult mineral references, generally age 19-50; adult values are male / female. Magnesium values shown are age 19-30.

Phosphorus is essential in bone, nucleic acids and energy transfer, with many functions occurring through phosphate compounds.

Phosphorus contributes to bone, nucleic acids, phospholipids and energy-transfer molecules, commonly reacting as phosphate. Its place in ATP does not mean phosphate supplies calories or guarantees more energy from supplements. Athletes need energy and many nutrients for metabolism. A key pathway component is not automatically the limiting factor for performance; assess overall adequacy and the actual reason for considering supplementation.

Meat, dairy, legumes, nuts and grains contain phosphorus, and some foods include phosphate additives. Availability differs: plant phytate-bound phosphorus is generally less accessible than additive phosphate. A high phosphorus content alone does not determine food quality. In kidney disease, source and additives deserve particular attention, with restrictions guided by clinical assessment rather than a universal ban on nutritious protein foods.

For example, record phosphorus from dairy, legumes and phosphate-containing products using actual portions; a source name without serving size does not establish daily adequacy.