Chromium
Minerals, Health & Weight Loss
Good diet nutrition is essential for optimum health – including efficient metabolism, stable blood sugar levels and appetite, all of which affect weight control and how fast we lose weight. Minerals play an essential role in this nutritional process.
Chromium
An essential trace element for animals and man. The only form of Chromium used by the body is trivalent chromium.
How Chromium helps
Along with nicotinic acid and certain amino acids, chromium functions as the Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF). It stimulates insulin activity thus helping in the metabolism of sugar. Without it, insulin cannot adequately control blood sugar levels. It also helps to control fat levels and cholesterol levels in the blood.
Good sources of Chromium include
Egg yolks, Molasses, Brewer’s yeast, Beef, Hard Cheese, Liver, Fruit Juices, Whole Wheat bread.
Chromium deficiency symptoms include
Symptoms similar to those of hypoglycemia
Alcohol intolerance
Nervousness
Frequent passing of urine
Thirst
Note:
Chromium deficiency may be caused by diets high in refined/processed food, prolonged dieting, pregnancy and alcoholism.
Recommended daily allowance for Chromium
No official RDAs.
US Guidelines say 50-200iu daily is a safe, adequate range.
The Importance of a Balanced Diet
If you have been a regular follower of fad diets, regular fasting, single food diets, yo-yo dieting or diet/weight loss pills, you may already be deficient in vitamins and minerals. This may be why you find it difficult to lose weight, or sustain weight loss in the long term.
Solution: Follow a balanced diet that offers slow steady weight loss and includes advice on exercise. Anne Collins Weight Loss Diet Program is a good choice.