

Though chromium supplementation is not effective for diabetics, taking chromium alongside a proven therapy may help fight depression and the snacking associated with binge eating. If this protein is impaired, insulin’s ability to work in the body is greatly reduced. Chromium works directly on the cell membrane. Chromium cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be provided by the diet. Chromodulin, a protein, normally augments the signaling of insulin receptors. Chromium - RDAs, deficiencies, benefits, foods rich in chromium, risks, Basics About Chromium Unlike Sodium or Calcium, Chromium is a mineral that humans require in trace amounts. Aim: This pilot study was designed to determine whether 600 microg niacin-bound chromium ingested daily over 2 months by African-American women undergoing a modest dietary and exercise regimen influences weight loss and body composition. True chromium deficiencies, characterized by inactive chromodulin, are rare.Ĭhromium’s main mechanism is directly tied to chromodulin. People with a subclinical chromium deficiency (below optimal, but not a true deficiency) may experience benefits when supplementing chromium, but more research is required to confirm this effect. Besides a mild decrease in fasting glucose, no diabetes-related biomarkers are improved. When chromium is supplemented by people with normal or elevated chromium levels, no reliable effect is achieved. Several studies suggest that chromium may help regulate blood sugar. In doing so, it helps to regulate blood sugar levels and give us stable energy throughout the day. It is sometimes supplemented to improve insulin action in the body. Chromium is used in the pathways that signal insulin in our bodies, so it helps control the amount of sugar that is absorbed into our bloodstream and cells. It is found in trace amounts in plant products, specifically grains.Ĭhromium regulates insulin in the body. Dosages between 12 mcg per day have been associated with kidney problems in women, so again, start small with doses and consult with your healthcare provider beforehand.Chromium is an essential mineral, consumed through the diet. For one we love, try this product from Solgar ( Buy now on Amazon, $9.95).Ĭhromium should be taken with caution. Be sure to look for chromium picolinate, the safest and most easily absorbed form of the mineral (it’s also the form used in each of the mentioned studies). You can also get chromium with a supplement, but as always, get your doctors OK beforehand. Good sources of chromium include broccoli, whole grains, garlic, grape juice, orange juice, green beans, red wine, and turkey, so go ahead and pile them on your plate. The study authors say these results show that since chromium improves glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, it can improve nutrient absorption and blood flow to the brain, helping us avoid or slow down cognitive decline.Īdding more of this healing mineral to your diet is easy. Glucose is one of the main sources of fuel for our brains. Chromium enhances the effects of insulin, such as glucose uptake by the cells it also has other roles in metabolism. Results from a 2007 study showed that older adult subjects experiencing early memory decline had improved cognitive functioning after taking chromium supplements. Other research suggests that the mineral may improve cognitive functioning. Another smaller study found that subjects taking chromium not only experienced less binge-eating episodes, but also had less symptoms of depression.Ĭhromium may also help in the prevention of cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s dementia. One eight-week study found that overweight women who took chromium had reduced food intake and reported reduced hunger and cravings. Some research suggests that chromium may have benefits for those trying to manage their weight because it helps control hunger.

In a larger study including over 62,000 people, researchers found that those who took supplements containing chromium were 27 percent less likely to have diabetes. In addition, subjects also had an improved response to insulin after taking the chromium. In one study, subjects who took a 200 milligram chromium supplement saw significant reductions in blood sugar levels. Chromium is used in the pathways that signal insulin in our bodies, so it helps control the amount of sugar that is absorbed into our bloodstream and cells.
