Chromium

Health Benefits of Chromium

 

English Name:  Chromium

 

Latin Name: Chromium (CrIII)

 

Type: Mineral

 

What is Chromium?

Chromium is a bright red, naturally occurring mineral first discovered in brewer’s yeast in 1917. It is commonly considered an essential trace element, meaning mammals require only small amounts of it for optimal health. There are two forms of chromium that we know of: chromium trivalent, which is biologically active and found in some foods, and chromium hexavalent, which is toxic and a result of industrial pollution. The chromium trivalent in most supplements is usually compounded with picolinic acid, a white substance that makes the mineral more easily absorbable for humans and other mammals. The resulting compound is called chromium picolinate (CrPic3)1. Foods that contain chromium include broccoli, green beans, apples, bananas, cheese, milk, whole grain breads, meat and poultry. Foods that are high in simple sugars, like candy bars and fast food, are low in chromium.

 

How does Chromium work?

Scientists believe that chromium plays a vital role in metabolizing carbohydrates and lipids or fats. It also seems to be pivotal in helping the pancreas produce sufficient amounts of insulin when it needs to, as well as in helping the body regulate glucose levels. In people who are insulin resistant — meaning their pancreas produces insulin, but they’re body does not respond to it correctly, sending blood sugar levels higher than normal in a condition known as prediabetes — chromium can help increase insulin sensitivity, which means it helps your body react appropriately to the insulin and reduce glucose in the bloodstream1. People with insulin resistance usually don’t usually know it unless they get a specific blood test from a doctor. In the same way, high blood pressure and low levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL) are both factors that may indicate insulin resistance but present no symptoms2.

 

What are the benefits of Chromium?

Studies have shown that chromium can help regulate the insulin and glucose levels of people and pets who are at risk of developing diabetes. Chromium supplements may be particularly helpful for treating diabetic animals that are difficult to regulate with insulin, such as cats3. Studies have also shown promise in chromium helping to both raise levels of “good” cholesterol and lower levels of “bad” (LDL) cholesterol. Though more research is needed, the effect of chromium on the body’s regulation of insulin and glucose suggest it could be beneficial for maintaining healthy body weight and optimal metabolism1.

 

Products Featuring Chromium

For Humans:

Insulate Plus™ for Normal Blood Sugar Support

 

 

For Pets:

GlucoEnsure™ for Blood Sugar Support

 

 Chromium Native Remedies

 

Native Remedies recommends you consult your doctor before introducing new herbal products into your regimen. Always ensure you are buying high-quality, laboratory-tested supplements from a reputable supplier. At Native Remedies, we back all our products with a 100 percent money-back guarantee. If you’re not happy with your purchase after trying it for 30 days, simply send it back for a refund. Here’s to your good health! 

 

The content provided is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have a health condition, please consult a medical professional and do not use this information to self-diagnose or self-treat.

 

Resources:

[1] Balk, Ethan M., Athina Tatsioni, Alice H. Lichtenstein, Joseph Lau, and Anastassios G. Pittas. "Effect of Chromium Supplementation on Glucose Metabolism and Lipids." Diabetes Care. August 01, 2007. Accessed October 08, 2018. http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/30/8/2154.long#ref-4.

[2] "Office of Dietary Supplements - Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Chromium." NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. September 21, 2018. Accessed October 08, 2018. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Chromium-HealthProfessional/#en38.

[3] "PetCoach - Ask a Vet Online for Free, 24/7." Ask A Vet Online For Free 24/7 - PetCoach. Accessed October 08, 2018. https://www.petcoach.co/article/the-use-of-chromium-in-dogs-cats/.

 

Reviewed by Master Herbalist, Mary Ellen Kosanke

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