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Chromium is a micro mineral, meaning that we need only very small amounts (25 to 30 micrograms a day) of this nutrient in order to be healthy. Nonetheless, it is essential to human health. Chromium is a mineral our bodies use in small amounts for normal body functions, such as digesting food. It exists in many natural foods including brewer’s yeast, potatoes (especially the skins), molasses, whole-grain breads, cereals, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Chromium is believed necessary for glucose and lipid metabolism. It breaks down carbohydrates and fats, and also makes GTF (Glucose Tolerance Factor). Insulin needs GTF to help glucose (sugar) go into the body’s cells. Chromium is widely marketed for use in diabetes and is used as a dietary supplement by approximately 10 million US consumers, second only to calcium supplementation. There is some scientific research that has supported the potential of chromium picolinate to be beneficial in diabetes to improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity, yet many of these studies it is claimed have design flaws and the relevance of the research in the US population has been questioned.
Chromium And Diabetes
However, the Department of Agriculture scientists have suggested, based on their own studies, that certain people such as the elderly, diabetics, and others with blood sugar (glucose) regulation problems can benefit from even higher levels of chromium, perhaps as high as 500-800 micrograms per day, which would normally require a supplement tablet.
Chromium is not an alternative to insulin for type 1 diabetics, but it may be helpful to type 2 diabetics in controlling blood sugar levels. Currently the American Diabetes Association does not recommend chromium supplements for persons with diabetes, however. When foods are processed, they are stripped of natural chromium, making American diets generally very low in chromium; studies estimate an average daily chromium consumption of 33 mcg.
Chromium is needed for energy, and helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels. In cooperation with other substances, it controls insulin as well as certain enzymes. Chromium is a potent metabolic hormone that aids in the breakdown and distribution of protein and carbohydrates so the body can use those fuels efficiently.
Chromium is integral to the proper functioning of many enzymatic processes in the human body. It is also essential in the breakdown of sugar and the conversion of sugar into energy.
So should you consider chromium as part of a healing plan if you have type 2 diabetes, or even insulin resistant? I certainly would!
Keith M Henry is the Director of phase 3ministries, based in Orlando FL. He is medical missionary herbalist, and Naturopathic doctor. Download your free copy of his report, Emergency Herbal Medicine, HERE. It may very well save your life.
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