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| Calcium Hypophosphite |
Calcium hypophosphite, also known simply as hypophosphite, is an inorganic
compound that plays an important but relatively unknown role in nutrition and health.
While calcium and phosphorous are widely recognized as essential minerals,
hypophosphite remains in the shadows.
What is Calcium Hypophosphite?
Calcium hypophosphite, with the chemical formula Ca(H2PO2)2, is a salt composed
of calcium, hydrogen, and hypophosphorous acid. It exists as colorless and
odorless crystals or a white powder. Hypophosphite differs from phosphate in
that one of the oxygen atoms is replaced by two hydrogen atoms. Despite this
subtle difference, hypophosphite functions similarly to phosphate in the body
and is readily used in its place. It is more reactive and reduces other
substances more readily than phosphate.
Health Benefits of Hypophosphite
While further research is still needed, studies have shown hypophosphite
provides several health benefits:
- Energy production: Hypophosphite plays a role in cellular energy production
through its role in ATP synthesis. As an intermediate in glycogen breakdown, it
helps release energy from carbohydrates.
- Bone health: Calcium
Hypophosphite
helps incorporate calcium and
phosphorous into bone matrix, supporting bone mineralization and strength. It
may help prevent osteopenia and osteoporosis.
- Liver function: Some evidence hints hypophosphite supports liver
detoxification by replenishing cofactors used in phase 1 and 2 reactions. This
may benefit overall liver health.
- Immune function: Animal research suggests hypophosphite stimulates immune
cell activity and antibody production, supporting a healthy immune response.
- Neurological health: Hypophosphite's role in energy production makes it vital
for nerve and brain function. Adequate levels may help prevent neurological
issues like seizures.
- Antimicrobial properties: Testing shows hypophosphite has antibacterial and
antifungal properties helpful for supporting overall health.
Food Sources of Hypophosphite
Since hypophosphite is closely intertwined with phosphate in the body, many
natural sources of phosphate also contain available hypophosphite. Some top
dietary sources include:
- Sprouted lentils and beans: Germinating lentils, chickpeas and other legumes
boosts hypophosphite levels.
- Dairy: Milk, yogurt and cheese naturally contain hypophosphite. Fermented
dairy is best absorbed.
- Sea vegetables: Kelp, kombu, wakame and other edible seaweeds are very
hypophosphite-rich.
- Chicken and fish: Animal proteins like salmon, shellfish and free-range
chicken offer hypophosphite.
- Eggs: Whole eggs from pastured hens provide bioavailable hypophosphite.
- Some fruits: Avocado, guava and oranges have small amounts.
Signs of Hypophosphite Deficiency
Since hypophosphite functions similarly to phosphate, deficiency signs mirror
those of phosphate deficiency. Subclinical or mild deficiency may cause
non-specific symptoms like fatigue, brain fog or joint pain. More severe
deficiency could result in:
- Weakened bones: Increases risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
- Impaired liver function: Jaundice, sluggish bile flow and toxic buildup may
occur.
- Decreased immune function: Repeated infections and poor antibody response.
- Neurological issues: Seizures, numbness, tingling, muscle spasms or cramps.
- Slow wound healing: Hypophosphite supports new cell growth.
Those at highest risk include the elderly, vegetarians, alcoholics, smokers and
anyone with liver or digestive disorders. Deficiency is easily prevented by
consuming adequate dietary sources.
Supplementing Calcium Hypophosphite
For those who may not get enough from diet alone or have increased needs,
calcium hypophosphite supplements can help boost intake. Supplement doses
generally range from 50-200mg per day, with the lower end suitable for
maintenance and the higher end more appropriate for correcting deficiency or
supporting additional health goals. As with any supplement, it's best taken
with food to aid absorption. Hypophosphite supplements are widely available
online or at health food stores.
Calcium hypophosphite is an important mineral similar to yet distinct from
phosphate. It plays roles in energy production, bone health, liver function and
more. Though deficiency is rare when diet includes animal proteins, seafood and
plant sources, hypophosphite deserves more acknowledgement for its benefits.
Ensuring adequate intake through nutrition and possibly supplements can
optimize health and reduce disease risk over the long term. More research will
continue to unravel hypophosphite’s full significance for human wellness.
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Hypophosphite