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Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients that help your body function properly and stay healthy. Most people can get enough by eating a balanced, varied diet. But some may need extra support from supplements.
What is Phosphorus?
Phosphorus is a mineral that helps build strong bones and teeth, and helps release energy from food.
Good Sources
Phosphorus is found in many foods.
Good sources include:
- red meat
- dairy foods
- fish
- poultry
- bread
- brown rice
- oats
How Much You Need
According to UK health guidelines, adults need 550 milligrams (mg) of phosphorus a day.
You should be able to get all the phosphorus you need from your daily diet.
What Happens If You Take Too Much
Taking high doses of phosphorus supplements for a short time can cause diarrhoea or stomach pain.
Taking high doses for a long time can reduce the amount of calcium in the body, which means bones are more likely to fracture.
Official Advice
UK Department of Health and Social Care advice:
You should be able to get all the phosphorus you need by eating a varied and balanced diet.
If you take phosphorus supplements, it's important not to take too much as this could be harmful.
Taking 250 milligrams (mg)or less a day of phosphorus supplements on top of the phosphorous you get from your diet is unlikely to cause any harm.
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Checked & Approved
Clinical Review Team
Written & Translated
Medical Publishing Team
Last Updated
18 May 2025
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