Hyperphosphatemia, or high serum phosphorus, is evident in people suffering from renal insufficiency or hypoparathyroidism. Tetany can also cause an upset of the calcium/phosphorus ratio.

Recommended Intake

The Daily Reference Intake (DRI) of phosphorus is 700 mg for adults, 1250 for adolescents, 460-500 for children, and 100-275 for infants.

Food Sources

Phosphorus is found in many of the same foods that are high in calcium. The best sources of phosphorus are milk and other dairy products. Meat and cereal grains are also good sources of phosphorus.

Figure %: Phosphorus Content of Selected Foods

Supplementation

There is not a common use of supplemental phosphorus, although phosphate salts and milk are commonly used to treat hypothyroidism.