Exercise Physiology: Theory and Application to Fitness and Performance 9th Edition by Scott Powers, Edward Howley

Exercise 6

What factors contribute to bone mineral loss in the female athlete?

Step 1 of 2

Bone mineral loss is a continuous activity that occurs in the bone. The osteoclasts are the cells that are responsible for mineral loss and resorption, whereas the osteoblasts deposit the mineral in the bone tissue. Under normal circumstances, the rate of deposition equals that of the rate of resorption to maintain a healthy bone. However, if the balance is disturbed, it leads to mineral loss and the bones become brittle.