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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
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.
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