Chromium

DESCRIPTION/FUNCTION

• Chromium is classified as a trace mineral. It is required for normal glucose metabolism; insulin cofactor.

DRI (RDA or AI for Adults)

• Under age 51: 35 mcg (Males); 25 mcg (Females).
• Ages 51 and older: 30 mcg (Males); 20 mcg (Females).
• Pregnancy: 30 mcg. Lactation: 45 mcg.

MAJOR SOURCES

• Nutritional or brewers yeast, cheeses, liver, wheat germ, molasses, nuts, whole grain breads and cereals, lean meats, cantaloupe, dark-green lettuces, onions, mushrooms, artichokes, prunes, tomatoes, asparagus.

MAINTENANCE/THERAPEUTIC RANGE

• 100 mcg to 1,000 mcg.

POSSIBLE THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

• Coronary heart disease
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Low blood sugar
• Obesity

COMMENTS

• Brewer’s yeast contains significant amounts of chromium. Two popular forms of supplemental chromium are picolinate and polynicotinate. Glucose tolerance factor (GTF) is a complex that assists insulin in blood sugar metabolism, and this factor consists of chromium, niacin, and three amino acids. Therefore, the polynicotinate form may be preferable.

CAUTIONS

• None significant, but high doses may cause headaches.