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| Chromium is an essential trace element involved with proper metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids in the body. Chromium supplements may be useful in a number of health conditions: even though chromium is needed in only small amounts, it is a key mineral in the body. Chromium is a difficult mineral to absorb. This mineral is stored in many parts of the body, including the skin, fat, brain, muscles, spleen, kidneys, and testes. As a result, foods such as white flour and white rice are low in chromium. About two tablespoons, or six tablets, per day supply most of our chromium needs; however, many people - perhaps 30-40% - do not tolerate yeast very well and find that it causes digestive upset or bloating. Following yeast in chromium concentration are beef, liver, whole wheat, rye, fresh chilies, oysters, potatoes, wheat germ, green peppers, eggs, chicken, apples, butter, bananas, and spinach. Beets and mushrooms may contain chromium. Non-food Sources There are many chromium supplements available. Function; Reasons For Use Chromium has been shown to lower serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels and raise healthy HDL levels. Chronic and gradual decreases in blood sugar results in a gradual increase in these regulatory hormones which leads to symptoms of dizziness, headache, clouding of vision, mental acuity, emotional instability, confusion, and abnormal behavior. As a part of Glucose Tolerant Factor (GTF), chromium assists insulin in its ability to regulate glucose levels in the blood. GTF, a niacin bound chromium found most commonly in brewer's yeast, has been shown to lower cholesterol levels when taken as a supplement. The greatest benefits of increasing intake of chromium are seen in people who are severely deficient in the mineral. In these cases, it has been shown to improve glucose and insulin function. Since there is no US RDA for chromium, many of the elderly population may be ingesting inadequate amounts of chromium in their diet. |
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