Chromium: The Excellent Mineral For Blood Sugar Control

This article discusses why chromium is needed to regulate blood sugar, the food sources, and the most effective form of chromium supplement.

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Chromium is a trace mineral vital for blood sugar control. It works like a key, helping insulin open cellular doors for glucose.

Many people don’t get enough of this essential nutrient.

How Chromium Works

Main Functions

Chromium helps your body by:

• Enhancing insulin action
• Improving glucose uptake
• Supporting metabolism
• Reducing sugar cravings

Chromium and Insulin

The mineral supports insulin by:

• Making insulin more effective
• Helping cells respond to insulin
• Reducing insulin resistance
• Supporting glucose transport

Signs of Deficiency

Common symptoms include:

• High blood sugar
• Increased hunger
• Afternoon fatigue
• Sugar cravings
• Difficulty losing weight
• Mood swings

Benefits of Blood Sugar

Most Significant Studies:

1. Meta-Analysis Results (2014):

• Average reduction: 0.6% in HbA1c
• Duration: 3-6 months
• Dose: 200-1000 mcg daily (Suksomboon et al., Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics)

2. Clinical Trial (2015):

• Reduction: 0.5% in HbA1c
• Duration: 4 months
• Dose: 600 mcg daily
• Type 2 diabetes patients only

3. Systematic Review (2016):

• Range: 0.3-0.9% reduction
• Most effective in poorly controlled diabetes (HbA1c > 8.5%)
• Better results when combined with metformin

Important Notes:

• Results vary significantly between studies
• Not all studies show positive results
• More effective in:
  • People with chromium deficiency
  • Those with higher initial HbA1c
  • When combined with proper diet and exercise

Food Sources

Good natural sources include:

• Broccoli
• Whole grains
• Beef
• Green beans
• Grape juice
• Egg yolks
• Potatoes
• Turkey

Supplementation

Important factors:

• Choose chromium picolinate—Best Naturals Chromium Picolinate Tablet, 200 mcg
• Typical doses: 200-1000 mcg daily
• Take with meals
• Start with lower doses
• Monitor blood sugar

Who Needs More Chromium

Higher needs in:

• Diabetics
• Older adults
• Athletes
• Pregnant women
• People under stress
• Those eating high-sugar diets

Safety Considerations

Keep in mind:

• Start with low doses
• Monitor blood sugar
• Tell your doctor
• Watch for side effects
• Check medication interactions

Conclusion

Chromium plays a crucial role in blood sugar control. Proper intake through diet or supplements can help maintain healthy glucose levels.

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Related:

102 Easy Ways to Lower Post-Prandial Blood Sugar Without Meds

References

1. Anderson RA. (2008). Chromium and polyphenols from cinnamon improve insulin sensitivity. Proc Nutr Soc. 67(1):48-53.
2. Hua Y, et al. (2012). Molecular mechanisms of chromium in alleviating insulin resistance. J Nutr Biochem. 23(4):313-319.
3. Cefalu WT, Hu FB. (2004). Role of chromium in human health and in diabetes. Diabetes Care. 27(11):2741-2751.
4. Vincent JB. (2015). Is chromium essential for human nutrition? J Trace Elem Med Biol. 31:147-153.
5. Lewicki S, et al. (2014). The role of Chromium III in the organism and its possible use in diabetes and obesity treatment. Ann Agric Environ Med. 21(2):331-335.
6. Krikorian R, et al. (2010). Chromium supplementation for glucose control: a review. Nutr Res Rev. 23(1):135-148.
7. Suksomboon N, et al. (2014). Systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of chromium supplementation in diabetes. J Clin Pharm Ther. 39(3):292-306.
8. Costello RB, et al. (2016). Chromium supplements for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes: limited evidence of effectiveness. Nutr Rev. 74(7):455-468.
9. Jamilian M, et al. (2019). The Effects of Chromium Supplementation on Blood Pressure and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors. Horm Metab Res. 51(8):495-500.

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