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Do Protein and Phosphorus Cause Calcium Loss?

Metabolic Research, Veterans Administration Hospital, Hines, IL 60141

The widespread opinion that both protein and phosphorus cause calcium loss is examined. Controlled human studies show that commonly used complex dietary proteins, which have a high phosphorus content, do not cause calcium loss in adult humans. Similarly, a phosphorus intake of up to 2000 mg/d does not have adverse effects on calcium metabolism; however, the type of phosphate contained in carbonated beverages may not behave in the same manner. In contrast, a diet low in protein and phosphorus may have adverse effects on calcium balance in the elderly. Studies with adults suggest that high protein foods do not cause calcium loss.

KEY WORDS: • protein • phosphorus • phosphorus depletion • calcium • osteoporosis

¹ To whom reprint requests should be addressed.

Manuscript received 15 December 1987. Revision accepted 28 January 1988.