Phosphorus
Key facts
Sources: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Phosphorus-HealthProfessional/ · FDA DV 1250 mg (https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-facts-label/daily-value-nutrition-and-supplement-facts-labels); pre-2016 DV [1000] (https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/05/27/2016-11867/food-labeling-revision-of-the-nutrition-and-supplement-facts-labels); adult UL 4000 mg
Daily dose across products (mg/day)
Label data from official national databases and brand websites, as declared; not lab-verified.
Common forms
| Form | Products | Median | P5–P95 | Elemental fraction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phosphorus calcium phosphate | 466 | 85 mg | 20 – 300 | — |
Common questions
What is the Daily Value for Phosphorus?
The US FDA Daily Value for adults and children aged 4 and over is 1,250 mg. It is a labelling reference, not a personal recommendation. [source]
Is there an upper limit for Phosphorus?
The adult Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) is 4,000 mg per day. Going above it long term raises the risk of adverse effects. See the linked source. [source]
How much Phosphorus do products usually contain per day?
As of 2026-11-01, 1,153 products list a comparable daily dose (1,177 dose records; one product can have several). The median is 81 mg per day, and 90% of records fall between 20 and 500 mg. Figures come from labels and are not lab-tested. [source]
What are the side effects of Phosphorus?
High phosphorus intake seldom causes problems in healthy people. Most Americans already get more than they need from food. (Source: NIH ODS) [source]
What happens if you take too much Phosphorus?
The adult UL is 4,000 mg a day (ages 19–70) and 3,000 mg (71+) from all sources. In severe chronic kidney disease the kidneys cannot clear excess phosphorus, which can harm bones and worsen kidney disease. (Source: NIH ODS) [source]
Is Phosphorus safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
The recommended amount in pregnancy and breastfeeding is 1,250 mg (teens) and 700 mg (women). The UL is 3,500 mg in pregnancy and 4,000 mg while breastfeeding. (Source: NIH ODS) [source]
Does Phosphorus interact with medications or other supplements?
Antacids with aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate reduce phosphorus absorption; using them 3 months or longer can cause low phosphorus. Laxatives containing sodium phosphate raise phosphorus, and overdosing is dangerous, especially with dehydration, kidney disease or heart disease. (Source: NIH ODS) [source]