Chromium

Essential for

normal sugar and fat metabolism because it is part of a compound known as glucose tolerance factor (GTF)

Absorption and metabolism

Absorption of chromium from food is poor.

Deficiency

Symptoms include high blood fat and cholesterol levels, glucose intolerance and other diabetes-like symptoms. Marginal deficiency may play a role in the development of diabetes and heart disease.

Sources

Good sources include liver, eggs, poultry and whole grain cereals. The chromium content of food varies with the location in which the food is grown. The table on the page 207 can be used as a guide.

Daily recommended dietary intakes

Estimated safe requirements are between 50 and 200 mcg per day.

Toxic effects of excess intake

Little is known about the toxic effects of large doses of the form of chromium found in food and supplements.

Interactions

Antacids may decrease chromium absorption.

Therapeutic uses of supplements

Chromium supplements are available in various forms, including brewer's yeast which may contain the most biologically active and absorbable form. Supplements have been used to treat high cholesterol, diabetes, hypoglycemia, heart disease and acne. Supplements are also used as part of weight loss programs.

Cautions

Chromium supplements may decrease insulin requirements in diabetics.

Chromium
Chromium health
Chromium absorption
Chromium deficiency
Chromium sources
Chromium recommended daily
Chromium supplements
Chromium overdose
Chromium interactions

Other Minerals:

Boron
Calcium
Chromium
Cobalt
Copper
Electrolytes
Potassium
Sodium
Chloride
Fluoride
Iodine
Magnesium
Manganese
Molybdenum
Nickel
Phosphorus
Selenium
Silicon
Sulfur
Vanadium
Zinc