Chromium is an essential trace mineral first discovered in 1955. Although our bodies contain only a few milligrams, even this tiny amount is critical for regulating insulin and blood sugar levels, as well as activating enzymes essential for energy production.

We get chromium through food, primarily yeast, grains, nuts, prunes, potatoes, and seafood. But we don’t get enough overall; many Americans are deficient in chromium. One reason is that diets high in refined sugar leach chromium right out of us.

Recent studies find that supplementing with chromium may not only lower cholesterol but also help stabilize blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Thus, it may be particularly beneficial to people with metabolic syndrome or diabetes.

What the research shows: In one small study of 28 people, those taking 200 micrograms of chromium daily for 42 days had significant decreases in both total cholesterol and LDL, decreases that didn’t occur when they took a placebo. At least eight other studies have found that chromium supplementation improved cholesterol. And numerous studies found supplementing with at least 400 micrograms of chromium improved fasting glucose levels, a sign of improved insulin sensitivity. Be aware that chromium may take several weeks or even months to yield results. Who should take it: People with metabolic syndrome or diabetes, as well as anyone susceptible to chromium deficiency (including athletes, the elderly, and people who follow diets high in refined sugar).

Recommended dose: 200 to 400 micrograms a day in divided doses for people with insulin resistance; 400 to 1,000 micrograms a day in divided doses for people with diabetes. Use chromium picolinate as your source. For everyone else the amount in a multivitamin should be sufficient. Warnings/contraindications: If you have diabetes, check with your doctor; taking chromium may alter your requirements for insulin or other diabetes medication. Source: Readers DigestFor more information Click Here

More Articles and Info:

Normal Range Blood Pressure

What is your blood pressure measure? Do you know if you have high blood pressure? When was the last time you measured your blood pressure? If you are bewildered by these questions, then you are not alone.

Lower Your Cholesterol And Thus Cancer Risk

Lower Cholesterol Current research suggests that lowering cholesterol may block the growth of prostate tumors.

Can You Lower Your Cholesterol

Researchers from Taiwan recently discovered that Lovastatin, a cholesterol lowering medication, may have a positive healing effect on degenerated intervertebral disks.

News Serv fef ice: Iowa State University

Yeon-Kyun Shin, a biophysics professor in the department of biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology, says the results of his study show that drugs that inhibit the liver from making cholesterol may also keep the brain from making [...]

Cholesterol Reducing Drugs

Research by an Iowa State University scientist suggests that cholesterol-reducing drugs known as statins may lessen brain function. 

7 Best Methods of Cholesterol Treatment

Making lifestyle changes, including quitting your smoking addiction and boosting your exercise levels, can increase HDL cholesterol levels [...]

Technorati Tags: cholesterol diets, cholesterol supplements, chromium, living with high cholesterol