Chromium

Chromium is an important trace mineral whose primary purpose is to aid in the synthesis and transport of protein throughout your body, and to help metabolize glucose for energy. Because of its ability to work with insulin in managing blood sugar, it has been thought by some to be able to prevent the onset of diabetes. It has also been thought to relieve arteriosclerosis and diabetes. The body does easily absorb the mineral and retains only about 3% of it taken through diet, mainly in the spleen, kidneys, and testes, with smaller amounts in the heart, pancreas, lungs, and brain.

Natural sources of chromium include cereal, broccoli, brewer’s yeast, corn oil, eggs, calves’ livers, ham, chicken, shellfish and clams. Many individuals do not get enough of this mineral from their diet, and therefore will need to take chromium supplements.

Uses for chromium are many. The most common have to do mainly with how it regulates blood sugar, and the wide ranging implications of this reveal a broad range of applications for good health. For example, for those individuals who have low blood sugar, chromium can raise their glucose levels. Chromium supplements may also increase glucose tolerance for people with certain types of diabetes. In some studies it has been shown to relieve people who have diabetes of nearly of all of their symptoms. Additionally, the mineral has gained some reputation as a weight loss product. This also is a by-product of its ability to manage glucose levels. Since the body stores unused glucose as fat, the mineral’s ability to manage blood sugar has made it useful for those needing to shed a few pounds. Another benefit is in the mineral’s synthesis of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Its ability to break down fats makes it an ideal mineral for cardiovascular health.

As you age, chromium levels in your body diminish, but a hair analysis can reveal if there is a deficiency of the vitamin. Current estimates are that 90% of people in North America are currently lacking in this important mineral. Diet plays an important role in ensuring a deficiency does not develop in the first place. Products made with refined sugar will decrease levels of this mineral in the body whereas complex carbohydrates can help to preserve it. There is no official RDA but it’s recommended that you get between 50-200 mcg. If you have lung, liver or kidney disease you should contact your health care physician before taking chromium supplements.

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