A mineral found in many foods, such as lentils, dairy, nuts, and oatmeal, phosphorus is an essential nutrient that our bodies need to function effectively.

Although too high levels of phosphorus in the body can be dangerous. Indeed, high phosphorus levels are associated with both heart disease and kidney disease, and that is why many people with these conditions are prescribed phosphorus Binders, as they function by reducing the amount of phosphorus in the blood.

Benefits of Binders in the management of phosphorus and importance in health

Phosphorus and importance in health

Too much phosphorus in the body can cause calcium to be drawn out of your bones, weakening them and leading to a build-up of calcium in the blood vessels. This, in turn, can lead to a condition known as atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis is where both calcium and fatty deposits collect along the walls of the vessels, limiting their ability to transport blood effectively, and in turn raising the chances of strokes and heart attacks.

Unfortunately, people experiencing kidney disease often struggle to remove enough phosphorus from their system to stay healthy. This is because their kidneys are already compromised and not working effectively enough to do an efficient job of filtering out excess phosphorus.

Benefits of Binders in the management of phosphorus

This is where binders come in as they help to clear the extra phosphorus in the body and stop it from being taken back up into the bloodstream. Binders do this by attaching to phosphorus in the intestine and thereby stopping it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. By lowering the amount of phosphorus that is absorbed, Phosphorus Binders can help to decrease the amount of phosphorus in the blood.

Phosphorus Binders are an important part of managing phosphorus levels in the body for people with heart disease and kidney disease. Used correctly, they can help to reduce the risk of serious health complications associated with high phosphorus levels.

Potential side effects of Phosphorus Binders

The most frequent side effects of Phosphorus Binders are constipation and diarrhea. Nausea, vomiting, bloating, gas, and stomach pain can also be experienced, albeit less frequently than the former side effects.

Phosphorus Binders occasionally can cause allergic reactions too. The symptoms of which are a rash, swelling, itching, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these side effects you must stop taking the medication and contact your medical professional immediately.

Phosphorus Binders can also interact with other medications. Therefore it's vital to consult with a doctor before beginning any new medication. Binders may also decrease the absorption of other minerals, so it's important to take them at least two hours before or after other supplements or medications.

Those with chronic kidney disease, need to take particular care with a binder known as calcium citrate (Calcitrate). This is because it increased the risk of aluminum accumulation which can cause further damage to the kidneys.

Phosphorus Binders medications trade and generic names