Posts by Indastrodotcom:
Chromium Supplements: What is the best source?
October 17th, 2008As one of the natural minerals found in the body, chromium is considered to be important. but until today, the exact amount of chromium levels that one should have in their body has yet to be established. Chromium actually comes in two forms: chromium 3+ or trivalent, which can be obtained from foods; and chromium 6+ or hexavalent, which is considered to be the toxic form of this mineral. To function properly, your body requires a health 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.
- cup of broccoli = 11 mcgs
- 1 cup of orange juice = 2 mcgs
- 2 slices of whole grain bread = 2 mcgs
- 3 oz of turkey breast = 2 mcgs
- 1 tsp of dried garlic = 3 mcgs
- 1 tblsp of dried basil = 2 mcgs
- 1 cup of mashed potatoes = 3 mcgs
- 5 oz of red wine = 1 to 13 mcgs
- 1 medium sized banana = 1 mcg
- cup of green beans = 1 mcg
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.
