Grandma's Chromium and Chromium Picolinate Guide

Grandma's Chromium and
Chromium Picolinate Guide

The average American diet is chromium deficient. Researchers estimate that two out of every three Americans are hypoglycemic, prehypoglycemic, or diabetic. The ability to maintain normal blood sugar levels is jeopardized by the lack of chromium in our soil and water supply and by a diet high in refined white sugar, flour, and junk foods.

Because it is involved in the metabolism of glucose, chromium (sometimes also called glucose tolerance factor or GTF) is needed for energy. It is also vital in the synthesis of cholesterol, fats, and protein.

This essential mineral maintains stable blood sugar levels through proper insulin utilization, and can be helpful both for people with diabetes and those with hypoglycemia. Studies have shown that low plasma chromium levels can be an indication of coronary artery disease.

Chromium deficiency can lead to:

anxiety
fatigue
glucose intolerance (particularly in people with diabetes)
inadequate metabolism of amino acids
increase risk of arteriosclerosis

Excessive intake can lead to Chromium toxicity, which has been associated with:

dermatitis
gastrointestinal ulcers
kidney and liver impairment

Chromium is best absorbed by the body when: it is taken in a form called Chromium Picolinate (chromium chelated with picolinate, a naturally occurring amino acid metabolite).

Picolinate enables chromium to readily enter into the body's cells, where the mineral can then help insulin do its job much more effectively.

Chromium Picolinate has been used successfully to control blood cholesterol and blood glucose levels. It also promotes the loss of fat and an increase in lean muscle tissue. Studies show it may increase longevity and help to fight osteoporosis. Chromium polynicotinae (chromium bonded in niacin) is an effective form of this mineral as well.

photo of a glass a beer a natural source of chromium

photo of a baked ham being sliced a natural food source of chromium

photo of a variety of cheeses in display case a natural food source of chromium

Natural Chromium Food Sources and
Herbal Sources of Chromium

Chromium is found in the following food sources

beer
brewer's yeast
brown rice
cheese
meat
whole grains

It may also be found in

dried beans
blackstrap molasses
calf liver
cheese
chicken
corn
corn oil

Herbs that contain Chromium include:

catnip
horsetail
licorice
nettle
oat straw
red clover
sarsaparilla
wild yam
yarrow

Cautions

If you have diabetes, do not take supplemental chromium (especially chromium picolinate) without consulting with a qualified health care provider. This supplement can affect insulin requirements, so you will have to monitor your blood sugar level very carefully.

Some people may experience lightheadedness or a slight skin rash when taking chromium. If you feel lightheaded, stop taking the supplement and consult your health care provider. If you develop a rash, either try switching brands or discontinue use.