PHOSPHORUS AND CALCIUM. Phosphorus and calcium are essential macronutrients in the human diet. Most of the phosphorus in the human body is found in association with calcium (as the mineral complex hydroxyapatite) in bones and teeth, where it is essential to structure. This form of phosphorus, along with phosphorylated sugars and proteins, is termed inorganic phosphorus. Organic phosphorus occurs primarily in the form of phospholipids.

Phosphorus absorption in the human body is proportional to the dietary intake, unlike calcium, where absorption is inversely related to the logarithm of intake. Absorption of phosphorus is facilitated by vitamin D. Phosphorus levels in urine are also directly related to dietary intake.

Important regulatory functions of phosphorus in the human body include maintaining the pH of body fluids,

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