Final answer:
The two major causes of bone mineral loss in female athletes are inadequate calcium/vitamin D intake and high blood estrogen levels. Inadequate levels of calcium and vitamin D lead to impaired bone formation by osteoblasts, resulting in bone mineral loss. High blood estrogen levels, particularly during menopause, can also contribute to bone mineral loss as estrogen promotes osteoblastic activity and production of bone matrix.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two major causes of bone mineral loss in female athletes are inadequate calcium/vitamin D intake and high blood estrogen levels.
Inadequate levels of calcium and vitamin D lead to impaired bone formation by osteoblasts, resulting in bone mineral loss. High blood estrogen levels, particularly during menopause, can also contribute to bone mineral loss as estrogen promotes osteoblastic activity and production of bone matrix.