Quick guide to Chromium
Read the full guide
Essential For
Normal sugar and fat metabolism because it is part of a compound known as glucose tolerance factor (GTF)
Absorption and metabolism
Absorption of chromium from food is poor.
Deficiency
Symptoms include high blood fat and cholesterol levels, glucose intolerance and other diabetes-like symptoms. Marginal deficiency may play a role in the development of diabetes and heart disease.
Sources
Good sources include liver, eggs, poultry and whole grain cereals. The chromium content of food varies with the location in which the food is grown. The table on the page 207 can be used as a guide.
Daily recommended dietary intakes
Estimated safe requirements are between 50 and 200 mcg per day.
Toxic effects of excess intake
Little is known about the toxic effects of large doses of the form of chromium found in food and supplements.
Therapeutic uses of supplements
Chromium supplements are available in various forms, including brewer’s yeast which may contain the most biologically active and absorbable form. Supplements have been used to treat high cholesterol, diabetes, hypoglycemia, heart disease and acne. Supplements are also used as part of weight loss programs.
Interactions
Antacids may decrease chromium absorption.
Cautions
Chromium supplements may decrease insulin requirements in diabetics.