Chromium is an essential trace mineral that can be found in the body and naturally in many foods
What are the sources of Chromium?
Although meat, whole-grain products and some fruits and vegetables are considered good sources of chromium, agricultural and manufacturing processes mean the actual content of chromium is unreliable.
How does Chromium assist our bodies?
Chromium may help to improve blood sugar for people with diabetes. One study conducted found that those taking 16 weeks of chromium a day were able to reduce blood sugar and insulin, and also improve their body’s response to insulin.
Another study discovered that there was a lower chance of having diabetes when taking dietary supplements that contained chromium. It may promote the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and proteins and also reduce hunger and food cravings. One study discovered that a daily intake of chromium resulted in reduced food intake and cravings in healthy overweight women.
It helps to combat the urges for those that binge eat. Furthermore, this helps reduce food intake and aid weight loss.
Why should we supplement our nutrition with Chromium at age 50?
Chromium levels can reduce in the body as people get older. A study has shown a link between chromium and memory function, suggesting it may help to boost older people’s memory.
Diabetes also becomes more of a risk as people age. Decreased chromium levels in the body has been linked with poorer insulin function. It has been shown that chromium acts as a helper to insulin function so may help to with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.
Regarding menopause
Calcium reduction increases during the menopause, causing osteoporosis. However, chromium slows the reduction of calcium.