Chromium
Chromium functions in the body as a key constituent of the glucose tolerance factor. Chromium works closely with insulin in facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. Without chromium, insulin's action is blocked and blood sugar levels are elevated. Chromium's key beneficial effect is to help insulin work properly.
Chromium - Diabetes
Nearly twenty controlled studies have demonstrated a positive effect for chromium in the treatment of diabetes. Most of the studies were performed in patients with type 2, or non-insulin-dependent, diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), a condition characterized by elevated insulin levels due to a loss of sensitivity to insulin by the cells of the body, otherwise known as insulin resistance. In clinical studies in NIDDM patients, supplementing the diet with chromium has been shown to decrease fasting glucose levels, improve glucose tolerance, lower insulin levels, and decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride levels while increasing HDL cholesterol levels.
Chromium - Elevated blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels
Although there are studies showing that chromium supplementation can reduce elevated blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, it appears that unless initial body chromium levels are very low, the degree of change produced by chromium supplementation will not be that meaningful. In patients who do respond to chromium supplementation, the changes can be significant (e.g., 10 percent reduction in total cholesterol and triglycerides and a 12 percent increase in HDL).
Chromium - Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar. Normally the body maintains blood sugar levels within a narrow range through the coordinated effort of several glands and their hormones. If these control mechanisms are disrupted, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or diabetes (high blood sugar) may result. There is some evidence that correcting a chromium deficiency through chromium supplementation can improve hypoglycemia.
Chromium - Weight loss
The most popular use of chromium is as a weight loss aid. Results from clinical studies are mixed. As with studies in other applications, results with chromium supplementation are going to be most obvious in those individuals with low body stores of chromium. Chromium supplementation has been shown to increase lean body mass while decreasing fat stores. These positive results were most apparent in elderly subjects and in men who took 400mg daily versus 200mg daily.
Popular forms of chromium on the market include chromium picolinate, chromium polynicotinate; and chromium-enriched yeast. Although each of these forms is touted by their respective suppliers to provide the greatest benefit, there is no firm evidence to indicate that one is a significantly better choice than another. Any one of these forms does, however, appear to be better absorbed and utilized compared to inorganic forms of chromium such as chromium chloride.
Chromium Side Effects
There have been no reports of any significant side effects or toxicity reactions with chromium supplementation in double-blind studies. There is one case report of anemia, liver dysfunction, and other problems appearing after taking 1,200-2,400mg of chromium picolinate per day for four to five months. It is therefore important not to exceed the recommended dosage.
Individuals with diabetes need to be aware that chromium supplementation may alter insulin or drug requirements. Consult a physician to discuss proper monitoring of blood sugar levels before taking chromium.
Calcium carbonate and antacids may reduce chromium absorption. Chromium supplementation may increase the effectiveness of insulin and drugs that lower blood sugar levels. Consult a physician to discuss proper monitoring of blood sugar levels before taking a chromium supplement.
Chromium levels can be depleted by refined sugars, white flour products, and lack of exercise. Vitamin C increases chromium absorption.
Pregnant/breast-feeding women - Considered safe during pregnancy and lactation.
Children - Suitable for children at one-half the adult dosage.
Seniors - No special precautions are known.