October
2007
Chromium for Health
Chromium originated from the Greek word chroma meaning color. This was due to its presence in many different colored compounds of pigments and dyes, primarily with leather. Chromium was discovered in the late 1700s by French chemists but it was nearly 1960 before scientists realized its potential benefits. It appeared, and was later confirmed that chromium corrected some abnormal sugar metabolism by being a cofactor with insulin. But, this insulin correction only occurred with borderline diabetics or those with a chromium deficiency. It was still a significant discovery. Ironically, the same scientists who discovered the organically bound mineral Selenium in Brewers yeast discovered the organic based Chromium in the same yeast now known as Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF). Prior to this discovery Chromium was only available in Chromium salt and was poorly utilized by the body where the yeast based was easily utilized.
Much like Selenium, Chromium found in high concentrations are toxic, harmful and corrosive. Used in industry without protection causes a host of problems to the human body but this trace mineral found in the foods we eat turns out to be an essential element that the body is unable to manufacture. Transported to the liver, Chromium is dispersed through the body and is found in trace amounts in the blood and tissues. The actual absorption of Chromium is under some debate since less than 1% of the daily intake is absorbed. Ingesting simple sugars causes excretion in large amounts, and again debates, on whether this causes a deficiency or not.
Chromium concentrations decline with age and is reported to be a contributing factor to glucose intolerance but an increase intake does help maintain a normal glucose metabolism. High fiber diets, strenuous exercise, processed foods, ageing, and pregnancy can contribute to Chromium deficiency. Decreased sperm count, fatty deposits in the arteries, high blood cholesterol and triglycerides count, and a reduction of lifespan are reported consequences of Chromium deficiency. Currently, 120 micrograms (mcg) daily of Chromium is considered ample, with 200 mcg daily being optimum for improving blood sugar levels. Other than good general and overall health, Chromium assists in the transport of proteins and assists in the breakdown or oxidation of glycogen and lipids.