Phosphorus

Mechanism

After calcium, phosphorus is the second most important mineral in the skeleton and at the same time a constituent of energy-rich phosphates (ATP), of nucleic acids and of cell-membrane phospholipids. Both the skeleton and energy metabolism therefore depend equally on a needs-based supply. Cereals and bran are rich in phosphorus, but their phosphorus is partly present as the less available phytate. Cereal-heavy rations can lead to a phosphorus excess relative to calcium — an inverted Ca:P ratio disturbs calcium utilisation and is undesirable in skeletal development.

Cautions

• · Phosphorus excess from cereals/bran can invert the Ca:P ratio and disturb calcium utilisation
• · Phytate-bound phosphorus (cereals) is less available than inorganic phosphorus
• · With one-sided bran feeding, compensate deliberately with calcium

Sources