Phosphorus is a mineral that is found in your bones.

Normal phosphorus levels are 3.5 to 5.5 mg/dL.

Your kidney is very important in removing extra phosphorus from your body.  When your kidneys become weak, they are unable to remove as much phosphorus as necessary.  As a result, bones can become weak and break.  Also, the excess phosphorus can clump together with calcium and clog up blood vessels throughout your body.

Your care team may prescribe medications to help lower the phosphorus in your body.  However, the best way to help control your phosphorus is by limiting the amount you have in your diet.

Dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, ice cream, milk (all varieties) as well as meats, beans, nuts and many processed foods contain a large amount of phosphorus.  If your phosphorus level is not within the normal range, your care team may ask you to limit these particular types of foods.

The National Kidney Foundation has some information about low and high phosphorus foods.  Click here to access this information.