Supplement:
Chromium Picolinate is a chromium supplement that can have profound effects on
health and nutrition. It has become extremely popular in recent years due to its
ability to lower body weight and increase lean body mass. Studies have shown
that chromium Picolinate can help those who suffer from high blood fat, high
blood sugar, obesity, food cravings and osteoporosis.
History: The
importance of chromium in human nutrition was discovered in 1957 when it was
shown that chromium was essential to proper blood sugar control. Chromium plays
a key role in increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin. Without chromium,
insulin's action is blocked and blood sugar levels are elevated. Insulin allows
the body to breakdown carbohydrates, fat and protein naturally. As a result,
chromium supplements can be beneficial in promoting weight loss, as well as
treating diabetes, hypoglycemia and high cholesterol. Chromium picolinate was
introduced in 1988 when a scientist from a mid-western college reported that it
increased lean body mass in male athletes.
Description: Chromium
picolinate is chromium bound to amino acid. Because the body does not absorb
chromium well, the amino acid (picolinate) is added to help aid absorption.
Studies show that chromium levels are deficient in 90% of the adult population
and chromium is not abundantly supplied in the typical American diet. The best
source of chromium is true brewer's yeast. It is also found in many grains and
cereals, but may be lacking if they are refined. Believe it or not, scrapings
from stainless steel pots and pans provide much of the chromium in many people's
diet. Many doctors recommend a daily chromium supplement of 200 mcg; however,
daily intake can range from 50 – 200 mcg depending on individual needs.
Strenuous physical activity increases the need for chromium.
Do not take more than 300
mcg per day without a doctor's supervision. Certain medications interact in a
positive and/or negative way with chromium. Check with your doctor if you are
currently taking any medications.
by Theresa Smith
|
