Chromium is a trace mineral needed by the body to maintain optimal health. It is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, and thus aids in regulating blood sugar and blood cholesterol levels. The body does not produce chromium on its own, so it must be obtained from the diet or from chromium supplements. Dietary chromium sources include broccoli, green beans, basil, grape juice, orange juice, whole wheat, apples, bananas, and garlic. In the market, the most famous form of chromium supplements is chromium picolinate that usually comes in capsule form.
The recommended dietary allowance for Chromium is 200 mcg. In order to get this from the diet, an individual must consume approximately 1200 calories per day. However, this caloric intake is considered a very expensive proposition and can lead to extreme obesity. For this reason, many are experiencing deficiency of this very valuable mineral and are missing out on its health benefits.
Chromium Benefits
- Dieters use chromium picolinate for weight loss. Those who have used this form of chromium supplement claims that it helped them reduce body fat and enhance muscle tone. Chromium for weight loss can be due to efficiently metabolise fats to prevent them from depositing to fat prone areas like the abdomen, legs, and arms.
- Diabetics can use chromium to manage blood sugar levels. This trace mineral has the ability to control blood sugar levels and keep them within healthy range. Also, having enough chromium levels in the body prevents insulin resistance.
- Chromium reduces the risk of heart diseases and stroke. Chromium works by reducing the amount of LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) circulating in the blood, and by helping increase HDL (High Density Lipoprtein) levels. These effects are very important in the prevention of heart attack, hypertension, and even cerebro-vascular accident (stroke).
- Chromium can help increase lean muscle mass. Body builders and athletes often use chromium supplements to achieve a more muscular physique. More lean muscles give them strength and vitality in performing strenuous physical activities.
- Chromium can help increase energy production. Since chromium is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, it also assists the body in producing more energy to go about its daily activities.
- Chromium boosts DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) levels. DHEA is a hormone with well established anti-aging and longevity benefits. Thus, getting more chromium is also related to longevity and reducing the harmful effects of aging.
Chromium Side Effects
When taken in its correct dosage of 50-300 mcg per day, chromium causes no toxicity. When chromium supplements are taken in extremely high dosages, chromium can cause free radical damage and hypoglycemia for people with diabetes.
