Phosphates and Phosphate Metabolism
Phosphates are derivatives of the mineral phosphorus, and are actually types of salt combined with phosphoric acid. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, because phosphorus is present in foods like milk, proteins and grains, most people obtain more than enough of this mineral from dietary sources. In fact, most people acquire too much phosphorus. Your calcium needs increase with your intake of phosphorus, and too much of the latter and not enough of the former can cause poor bone health and conditions like osteoporosis. A buildup of phosphates can also interfere with cellular energy production and is thought to contribute to fatigue and other symptoms of fibromyalgia. A phosphate buildup occurs when your body doesn't excrete enough phosphates out of your body through your urine; it is thought to occur due to a kidney malfunction, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association. -Taken From Live Strong
Foods High in Phosphates
Soft drinks, soda drinks, especially cola or coke and fizzy lemonade
Cordials/fruit syrup beverages
Chocolate, lollies,
sweets, candy, and anything else with a high citric acid and sugar content
Ice-cream
Skim milk powder (often added to processed foods)
Biscuits, cookies, cakes from the supermarket
Tomato ketchup
White tuna
Mayonnaise
Fish fingers
Processed cheese, especially soft cheese
spread
Frozen pizzas
Hot dogs
Processed meats
Baking powder and
self-raising flour often contains phosphate aerator
Avoid all foods that list as an ingredient mineral salts, emulsifiers and lecithin.
Natural Foods that Contain Phosphates
Egg yolks
Milk
Nuts
Wheat germ
Soybeans and their by-products
Peas
Beans
Lentils
Corn
Mushrooms
Oats
Cocoa beans (chocolate)
Sweet breads - liver, brains, kidneys
Be a label checker as you peruse your local grocery. Try to get all packaged foods void of phosphates this week. Take note if these reduce your symptoms.