Phosphorus deficiency has been observed in animals and symptoms include weakness, anorexia, anemia, osteomalacia or rickets, tetany, and possibly death. Excessive intake of phosphorus is much more common than a deficiency. A proper balance of phosphorus, calcium and magnesium is necessary because these nutrients are crucial to bone health. The Recommended Dietary Allowances for phosphorus are based on adequate calcium intake. Good sources of phosphorus include meats, fish, poultry, and eggs.
Milk provides a good source of both phosphorus and calcium in the proper ratio.
Excessive phosphorus is much more common than a deficiency. Rodale Press, 1996. Hendler, S. The Doctor s Vitamin and Mineral Encyclopedia. Janson, M. The Vitamin Revolution. Arcadia Press, 1996.