Topics covered in this snack-sized chapter:
Chromium is an essential mineral that is required in the maintenance of our health.
Chromium is a trace element essential to the metabolism of lipids (cholesterol), glucose, and insulin regulation.
Chromium is involved in the production of insulin and the release of glucose's energy from cells.
Chromium is referred to as the master regulator of insulin, a potent metabolic hormone involved in protein, carbohydrates and fat metabolism.
Chromium is one of the important minerals. Some of its important functions include:
- It improves function of insulin in the body and mat result in good control of sugar level in the blood.
- It has been found beneficial for those individuals suffering from type II diabetes in reducing the level of insulin.
- It provides relief from depressive symptoms in an individual with atypical depression.
- It is beneficial in maintaining the composition of fat as well as muscles when weight loss occurs.
Food sources of chromium include:
- Lean meats (especially processed meats)
- Whole-grain breads and cereals
The recommended daily intake for chromium as given by the National Institutes of Health is:
Group
| Dose/day
|
Children
| 11 mcg
|
Teenagers
| 35 mcg
|
Men
| 30 -35 mcg
|
Women
| 20- 25 mcg
|
Pregnant women
| 30 mcg
|
Lactating women
| 30 mcg
|