Mineral imbalances can be caused by the destruction of digestive enzymes in food, thus inhibiting enzymes in foods, thus inhibiting the assimilation of nutrients. This is the second most plentiful mineral in the body. Phosphorus, in proper ration to calcium, contributes to the hardness of bones. If the diet is consistently high in phosphorus and protein and low in calcium, dangerous demineralization of bones can take place. This mineral is essential for normal bone growth and development.
Research indicates that lack of manganese can contribute to the thinning of bones.
Manganese influences the production of mucopolysaccharides, protein-like molecules that provide a foundation for bone calcification. Research at the United States Department of Agriculture indicates that boron works similarly to estrogen in post-menopausal women to prevent demineralization of bone. Boron increased the blood concentrations of estrogen, in the same percentages as that of women who were taking regular estrogen replacement therapy. In addition, it was found that boron reduced the loss of calcium through the kidneys by 44 percent. This nutrient plays an integral part in bone health.