Phosphates

Inorganic salts of phosphoric acid.


Salts of phosphoric acid; the form in which the element phosphorus is normally present in foods and body tissues.


Form in which phosphorus is found in foods and in the body. Phosphates play important roles in many biological reactions. Inorganic phosphates are used to buffer formulated foods against changes in the acid-base balance.


A molecule (PO4) containing phosphorus and oxygen.


Salts of phosphoric acid widely distributed in the body. Phosphates are particularly found in the bones and teeth. Inorganic phosphates are important in the maintenance of the acid-base balance in body fluids, including blood, saliva, and urine. Organic phosphates are involved in chemical reactions that provide the energy used in muscle contraction. Phosphates are also constantly being excreted in urine and feces and must be replaced in the diet by eating phosphate-rich foods, such as cereals, dairy products, eggs, and meat.


Any salt of phosphoric acid containing the radical P04. Phosphates are important in the maintenance of the acid-base balance of the blood, the principal ones being monosodium and disodium phosphate. The former is acid, the latter alkaline. In the blood, because of their low concentration, they exert a minor buffering action.


Compounds composed of phosphorus and oxygen. Phosphates are vital components of the diet and are found in numerous foods, such as cereals, dairy items, eggs, and meat.


The majority of the body’s phosphorus combines with calcium, creating the framework for bones and teeth. The residual amount is found in trace quantities within most bodily tissues, contributing to the maintenance of the acid-base equilibrium in blood, urine, saliva, and other fluids. ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is a phosphate compound that stockpiles energy for chemical reactions within cells.


In the majority of individuals, the kidneys uphold a steady phosphates level in the body by controlling the quantity expelled through urine. They can counterbalance a minor insufficiency of dietary phosphates by decreasing the amount eliminated in the urine.


Hypophosphatemia (an unusually low phosphates level in the bloodstream) can arise due to certain types of kidney ailments, hyperparathyroidism, prolonged usage of diuretic medications, malabsorption issues, or extended periods of starvation. It leads to symptoms like bone discomfort, muscle weakness, seizures, and in severe instances, could result in a coma or even death.


To address hypophosphatemia, phosphates can be ingested orally through medication formulations or milk. They are also utilized for managing hypercalcemia (excessive calcium levels in the bloodstream). Diarrhea stands as a potential side effect of phosphate medications.


 


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