Phosphate
Phosphate is a mineral the body uses to build bones and teeth and to store and move energy in cells.
Phosphate is a mineral the body uses to build bones and teeth and to store and move energy in cells. Most of it is bound in the skeleton together with calcium. The level in the blood is regulated by the kidneys, vitamin D and parathyroid hormone, and it is read together with calcium.
A recent meal, time of day and diet affect the value, and processed foods with phosphate additives raise intake. Vitamin D, alcohol, large supplement doses, some medicines and how well the kidneys regulate phosphate also play a part. Levels are naturally higher in children and teenagers.
Foods that help
Fish, eggs, dairy, meat, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains provide phosphate as part of a varied diet.
Foods to limit
Processed meat, cola drinks, processed cheese and many ready meals contain phosphate additives, which add to intake beyond what natural foods provide.
Track it through the year
One value is a snapshot. Following it up shows whether what you changed is working.
Related markers
Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every result is checked against safe limits, and anything critical is escalated for follow-up.
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