Phosphorus is a mineral. It works with calcium to keep your bones and teeth strong.
Dialysis removes some phosphorus from your blood.
High phosphorus levels in your blood may cause:
- Hardening of your blood vessels
- Weak and easily broken bones
- Bone, joint, and muscle pain
- Itching
How can I control my phosphorus level?
- Dialysis – Complete all your dialysis treatments.
- Diet – Eat a diet lower in phosphorus.
- Phosphorus binders – If prescribed, take with meals.
Some foods naturally contain phosphorus and some foods have phosphorus added to them. The phosphorus from additives is easier for our body to absorb so it is best to avoid foods that contain them.
Examples of foods with phosphorus additives include: cola beverages, deli meats, foods made with baking powders, powdered drink mix, non-dairy creamers, fast foods, ready-to-eat foods, canned foods, frozen seafood, frozen seasoned chicken breast, processed and marinated meats and cheeses, and vegetarian meat substitutes.
Cooking from fresh is the best way to avoid unwanted phosphorus additives.
There is naturally occurring phosphorus in some foods as well. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and pudding are especially high phosphorus foods and may need to be limited.