Chromium

What It Is

Chromium is an essential trace mineral required by the body for proper carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism. It’s a component of the Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF) a molecule that’s necessary for proper insulin function in glucose metabolism. The body does not create chromium so it must be obtained from the diet.

What It Does

Chromium is involved in biochemical reactions. It appears to boost the effects of insulin, breaking down sugar so it can then circulate in your bloodstream and be used by cells to produce energy.

Researchers from the Clinical Epidemiology, Mexican Social Security Institute, in Durango, Mexico examined the role of chromium and other minerals such as magnesium on sugar metabolism. They determined that chromium is essential in the metabolism of sugars in the body and may be beneficial in controlling diabetes. They also confirmed that chromium has no side effects. The researchers concluded that the most common cause of chromium deficiency is an inadequate diet.

In a different experiment, scientists form the Center for Cell Signaling, University of Virginia School of Medicine, found that chromium works by boosting an enzyme called insulin receptor kinase.

This enzyme helps insulin bind to your cells and break down sugars. It’s important because in diabetes, insulin (even in large amounts) cannot easily bind to cells and becomes unable to break down sugar molecules. So, it’s possible that chromium treatment may be more effective than ordinary treatments for diabetes, which only stimulate your body to produce more insulin.

Because of low absorption and high excretion rates, chromium toxicity is not common.

Chromium is just one of 22 ingredients in the Vita-Betic™ blend multi-vitamin, mineral and herb supplement, formulated to meet the dietary needs of diabetics. Click here for more information on the Vita-Betic formula, or click here for information how to receive FREE vitamins.

"The information presented here is intended for educational purposes only. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease. Individual results will vary. Before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider."