Metabolic Functions:

Chromium is an essential trace element used in the body by the glucose tolerance factor that was mentioned earlier. Chromium that comes from brewer's yeast is more beneficial to the body than the inorganic form of chromium. It is thought to increase the number of receptors for insulin, therefore making them more open to sugars and free fatty-acids. Chromium seems to be helpful with people who have diabetes or even hypoglycemia. Chromium also helps with the regulation of cholesterol levels. Chromium is really helpful when blood sugars are very high, high meaning that they are so high that the body has to begun to break down proteins because the body cannot use insulin to transport glucose into the cells as needed. Different studies have shown that chromium has helped in insulin resistance and high blood sugar caused by stress. The dosage for people with diabetes vs. people without diabetes is very different, people with diabetes need a significant amount more than people without.
Other than just regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels, Chromium also plays a part in the energy for muscular contraction via the glucose in the cells with the help of insulin getting it there. There are some elements a nutrition related things that will block the absorption of Chromium: iron, manganese, zinc, vanadium, phytates.
The key is to take chromium the right way so you get the total benefit from the mineral! Make sure that you are getting enough Niacin (it is a co-factor for chromium). They work together to make chromium better absorbed and used in the body!



Rister, Robert S. (2003) Healing Without Medication Basic Health Publications Laguna Beach, CA

Dietary Sources & Recommended Intakes

The trivalent form (Cr3+) of chromium is found in many different foods including whole grains, broccoli, Brewer's yeast, mushrooms, cheese, beer, wine, and even chocolate chip cookies. When foods are refined or processed the level of chromium in the food is diminished. For instance, processed white sugar has less chromium than molasses or brown sugar.

The adequate intake (AI) recommended for chromium for adults up to age 50 ranges from 25-35mcg/day. After age 50 the AIs are reduced to 20-30mcg/day. It is recommended that pregnant or lactating women get 30-45mcg/day.

Groff J., Gropper S., and Smith J. (2005). Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism.(4th Edition). Belmont, Ca: Wadsworth.