Which mineral is involved in bone metabolism and glucose metabolism?

Manganese plays an essential role in both bone metabolism and glucose metabolism. In terms of bone health, manganese is a critical component of several enzymes involved in the formation of bone and cartilage, including those that synthesize glycosaminoglycans, which are vital for the structural integrity of cartilage and bone.

In relation to glucose metabolism, manganese is involved in the activation of enzymes that are crucial for the metabolism of carbohydrates. It helps in the regulation of blood glucose levels and supports the functioning of the pancreas, which produces insulin—a key hormone in glucose metabolism.

While silicon, selenium, and molybdenum also have roles in the body, their functions do not directly encompass both bone and glucose metabolism to the same extent as manganese. Silicon is associated primarily with the health of connective tissues and bone but is not as directly involved in glucose metabolism. Selenium is an antioxidant that plays roles in thyroid function and immune response, while molybdenum is involved in certain enzymatic processes but does not have a significant role in bone or glucose metabolism like manganese does.