Phosphorus is an important element for many essential processes in the body. In combination with calcium it is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth. Phosphorus is also involved in the metabolism of fat, carbohydrate and protein, and in the effective utilization of many of the B-group vitaminsFind out more about this term, and in energy metabolism. Phosphorus is very widely distributed in both plant and animal foods. Because of its widespread occurrence, it is unlikely that you will have any dietary deficiency. But you could become deficient if you used large amounts of antacidsFind out more about this term for a long time. Also, people with faulty kidneys could have a deficiency of phosphorus.