Chromium is a trace mineral needed by the body in small amounts for healthy functioning. It is best researched for blood sugar and diabetes control, heart health, weight management and brain health. Chromium plays a role in the insulin-signaling pathways that allow our bodies to control the amount of sugar we take in, helping balance blood glucose levels and giving us stable energy. It also helps to protect DNA chromosomes from damage which means it may be able to halt cell mutations that can lead to various chronic diseases. Chromium is also associated with longevity and improved cardiovascular health due to its role in metabolizing fats, in addition to proteins, carbs and other nutrients.
Benefits of Chromium:
- Helps Control Blood Sugar & Prevent Diabetes
- Helps Reduce High Cholesterol
- May Help Prevent Weight Gain & Overeating
- Helps Maintain Brain Health & Fight Cognitive Decline
- May Help Improve Skin Health & Prevent Acne
- Supports a healthy metabolism & Energy Levels
- Helps Maintain Eye Health
- Helps Protect Bones From Fractures & Osteoporosis
Symptoms Linked to Chromium Deficiency:
- Low energy, fatigue
- Low concentration & poor memory
- Mood changes, like increases in anxiety
- Changes in weight
- Poor blood glucose control
- Worsened levels of weak bones & bone loss
- Poor skin health
- Higher risk for high cholesterol & heart complications
- Worsened eye health
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
- Stunted growth & development
- Delayed time in healing wounds or recovering from surgery
Health Problems Associated to Chromium Deficiency:
- Anxiety – Its effect on serotonin transmission may explain its anxiolytic (anxiety relieving) effect in animal studies.*
- Depression – Elevates serotonin (feel-good neurotransmitter) levels in the brain. May be particularly effective on eating symptoms of depression such as carbohydrate craving and increased appetite due to its effect on blood sugar regulation.
- Diabetes – Helps insulin attach to cell’s receptors increasing glucose uptake into cell. Deficiency can cause insulin resistance. Supplementation trials show dose-dependent benefits for type 2 diabetics.
- Dyslipidemia – Specifically improves the dyslipidemia that accompanies insulin resistance. May increase HDL. Synergistic effect with Niacin(B3) for dyslipidemia.
- Fatigue – Promotes glucose uptake into cells, helping stabilize blood sugar.
- Weight Management – Makes the body more sensitive to insulin, helping to reduce body fat and increase lean muscle.
How to Acquire Chromium:
- Broccoli
- Grapes/Grape Juice (pure, unsweetened)
- Potatoes
- Garlic
- Basil
- Grass-fed Beef
- Oranges
- Turkey
- Green Beans
- Apples
- Bananas
