Chromium

Functions

Chromium is crucial for controlling blood sugar levels, cholesterol metabolism, and is involved in nucleic acid metabolism. Chromium is also associated with sugar and insulin metabolism, weight control, cardiovascular health, muscle preservation, cholesterol (LDL and HDL) levels, and brain chemical activity.

Chromium is thought to have a role in the treatment and prevention of acne, glaucoma,type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels, obesity, psoriasis, and hypoglycemia.

Chromium Deficiency

Because of the food processing methods that routinely remove the majority of natural chromium, dietary deficiencies of this mineral are widespread in this culture.

Chromium deficiency can lead to insulin resistance, a condition in which the cells do not respond to the presence of insulin. This results in elevated blood levels of insulin and elevated blood glucose levels, which, in turn, can result in serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Even mild deficiencies of chromium are being associated with a medical condition known as Syndrome X - a group of symptoms that include high blood pressure,hyperinsulinemia, high triglyceride levels, high blood sugar levels, and low HDL cholesterol levels.

Food Sources of Chromium Include:

Brewer's yeast, brown rice, cheese, meat, whole grains, beans, blackstrap molasses, chicken, corn, dairy products, dulse, eggs, romaine lettuce, raw onions, and mushrooms.

Herbal Sources of Chromium Include:

Catnip, horsetail, licorice, nettle, oat straw, red clover, sarsaparilla, wild yam, and yarrow.

Using Supplements

Mother Nature Chromium Picolinate - Dietary Supplement - 200 mcg 100 caps Chromium plays a major role in regulating metabolism, especially glucose metabolism, but it is sorely lacking in the Americn diet. Additionally, strenous exercise and a high intake of refined sugar can increase the body's excretion of chromium. Our Chromium Picolinate supplement is a highly bioavailable source of chromium.

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The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.