Chromium is referred to as the master regulator of insulin, a potent metabolic hormone involved in protein, carbohydrate and fat metabolism. Chromium levels decrease with age and it is important to replace it on a daily basis.
Chromium functions in the body: Metabolism of glucose (sugar), Neurotransmitters, Brain function, Insulin performance, Thyroid function, Hormonal balance.
Chromium is an essential mineral that is required in the maintenance of our health. Chromium is a trace element essential to the metabolism of lipids (cholesterol), glucose, and insulin regulation. Chromium is involved in the production of insulin and the release of glucose's energy from cells. "Enzymes that are implicated in the metabolism of glucose, for energy and for the formation of fatty acid and cholesterol compounds, are stimulated by chromium. The performance of insulin is enhanced by chromium, enabling more efficient transfer of glucose to cells." 39 Chromium is referred to as the master regulator of insulin, a potent metabolic hormone involved in protein, carbohydrates and fat metabolism.
Weight loss is promoted when chromium is taken; the insulin regulation promotes T3, the thyroid hormone that increases the rate of the body's ability to burn calories. It also promotes serotonin, a neurotransmitter that controls the appetite and curbs cravings for sugar.
Chromium deficiencies are characterized by a wide variety of clinical diseases and shortened life span. Currently the average American diet does not contain sufficient amounts of chromium because of the depletion of vital minerals in our soil. Chromium deficient diseases are aggravated by vanadium deficiency.
Scientists estimate that 90% of Americans don't get enough chromium and 60% are diabetic or hypoglycemic. "Since chromium helps insulin work better, it may also raise the blood sugar, levels in people with low blood sugar, as shown is studies by researchers with the U.S. Department of Agriculture." 40
Chromium is excreted in urine and sugar loads increase the rate of chromium loss by 300% in 24 hours, therefore, it is necessary that we replace chromium daily. Engaging in strenuous exercise can also deplete chromium levels. Chromium is an essential nutrient in bringing balance to the body. Chromium works best if taken before meals to help stabilize blood sugar levels. Chromium drastically effects body fat by activating insulin.
Chromium levels decrease with age and it is important to replace chromium on a daily basis. One of chromium's main functions is to regulate sugar metabolism. Even if sugar is absent from your diet, chromium is necessary because foods are eventually reduced to simple glucose. The widespread tendency to consume high glycemic foods, sugar and refined carbohydrates results in chromium loss and depletion of chromium stores. "Chromium deficiency has a pronounced effect on the body. Soil of American farms is deficient in chromium. Other countries are rarely found to have chromium-deficient soils. The refining of starches and carbohydrates also robs food of its chromium supply." 41
- Bernard Jensen, Ph.D., The Chemistry of Man, (Bernard Jensen, 1983) page 375.
- The Editors of Prevention Health Books, Healing with Vitamins, (RodalePress, Inc., 1996) page 28.
- Bernard Jensen, Ph.D., The Chemistry of Man, (Bernard Jensen, 1983) page 375.
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