Minerals are required by the body to help carry out most of the biochemical functions in an efficient manner. They enhance the processes of growth, development and repair in the human body. They are of two types— Major minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, calcium and micro minerals such as iron, cobalt, copper, iodine, silicon, nickel, selenium, germanium etc.
Chromium is a trace mineral that is required by the body in small amounts. The total content of the mineral in the body is less than 6 mg and is known for its unusual glucose tolerance capacity and also plays a significant role in relation to carbohydrates and insulin function.
It is found in two forms— trivalent chromium, which is biologically active and is found in various food sources and hexavalent chromium, a toxin that is the by- product of industrial pollution.
Benefits of Chromium:
It is known to enhance the action of insulin, a hormone critical to the metabolism and storage of fats, proteins and carbohydrates in the body. Chromium readily enters in the cells and then gets bound to intracellular proteins. Radioactive form of the mineral is widely used to tag red blood cells (RBC). These tagged RBCs, when injected back in the body can be seen in circulation and the rate of hemolysis can be calculated. These labeled target cells are used to demonstrate the cytolytic effect of lymphocytes. Supplementing the nutrient improves mild diabetic condition. The efficiency of binding of insulin to its receptors on the peripheral cells is improved by the nutrient.
Deficiency:
Chromium deficiency in humans is rare but a shortage in the nutrient content of the mineral might aggravate Type II diabetes. The glucose tolerance is impaired in this condition. It may also lead to a decrease in fertility and sperm count.
Food Sources:
These include meat, fruits and vegetables, spices, and whole grains. Tobacco is rich in chromium and this is implied partly in the carcinogenic effect of tobacco.
Dosage:
The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of the mineral is 50 – 200 mg in adults.
Chromium levels in the body decrease with age in hair, sweat and blood. More research is regarded to determine the benefits of the nutrient in the field of human biology.
The trivalent and hexavalent atoms of chromium are biologically active. The total body content of the mineral is 6 mg. Cooking in stainless steel containers improves the chromium content of food. The blood level of the mineral is 25 nanogram / 100 ml.
Side Effects:
Chromium toxicity is an occupational hazard of the workers of the tanning industry. It results in damaging the liver and kidney. The upper tolerable limit of the mineral is 200 mg per day.
Before taking any mineral supplements it is essential for you to consult a registered medical practitioner in order to determine if the nutrient is required by your body or not. You must also make note of any of the diseases or ailments you might be suffering from such as high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, depression, kidney problem, gastro intestinal disease, high cholesterol levels etc. you must also consider your present medical condition before taking the supplement, if you are allergic to any prescription or over the counter (OTC) drugs or have a family history of any ailments before taking any mineral.
For complete heath benefits, it is essential to follow a regular exercise routine along with the intake of a well balanced diet and adequate amount of rest. It is necessary to take professional advice from a certified dietitian before taking any supplements especially, if you are expectant or lactating. Taking any nutrient in excess is potentially harmful for the body and can have adverse effects. Fitness must be thought of as a way of life in order to promote total wellness and longevity. With determination and perseverance, you will be able to reach your health related goals in a short period of time.
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