Chromium Supplements: What is the best source?
Only recently has medical research begun to establish the amount of chromium that our bodies need to help regulate blood sugar (glucose), maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress and increase energy. What we do know is that the essential mineral chromium comes in two forms: chromium 3+ (”trivalent” which is obtained from certain foods) and chromium 6+ (”hexavalent” that is a toxic form of chromium). Your body benefits most, obviously, by a sufficient amount of chromium 3+.
In addition to enhancing the action of insulin in the body, chromium also plays a major role in the metabolism and storage of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Its exact role is yet unclear and additional studies will have to be conducted to establish this relationship. These studies will have to involve analyzing foods for its chromium content, determining the benefits of chromium, finding out if chromium supplements can help and computing how much amount of chromium is needed to address chromium deficiency.
There are many different foods that contain chromium. Unfortunately, the chromium amount found in these foods is quite small, approximately 2 microgram per serving. Examples of foods rich in chromium include vegetables, fruits, meat, seafood, spices and whole grain products. if you do not want to lose more chromium than usual, then you should stay away from foods that contain high amounts of sugar. These foods are known to deplete the chromium reserve in your body. To give you and idea how much chromium is contained in these foods, check the list below.
Broccoli and red wine lovers may find this list especially helpful! But it is unwise to over-indulge in either, of course. Foods that are high in sugar actually cause chromium depletion. Thus, people with type 2 diabetes should avoid sugary foods and instead consume food that is high in chromium because of its ability to regulate blood sugar (pancreatic insulin). Chromium also plays an essential role in regulating your metabolism and the storage of fat, carbohydrates and protein.
Chromium is found in two forms: chromium 3+ (”trivalent”, obtained from food) and chromium 6+ (”hexavalent” that is the toxic form of this mineral). To function in a healthy manner, your body requires a sufficient form of chromium 3+. Chromium from foods is not well absorbed by your body; your physician may determine that taking a chromium supplement is right for you.
High-quality chromium supplements are available in your local pharmacy or health food store as well as from online vendors. If you buy locally, be sure to ask questions of the store staff to make sure you’re receiving a legitimate chromium supplement. Buying chromium online is especially convenient since you can do a little homework about the vendor through the “about chromium” section of the web site. You may also find better discounts from reliable, legitimate online vendors as well as free shipping with your order.
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Tags: Fitness
