Chromium sources, health benefits and uses
Saturday, September 23, 2017 by Earl Garcia
http://www.naturalpedia.com/chromium-sources-health-benefits-and-uses.html
Chromium is an essential mineral that was first discovered by French chemist Louis-Nicolas Vauquelin in 1797. According to a Chemistry Explained entry, the mineral’s name comes from the Greek word chroma that means color. This is due to chromium’s many colors, the article notes.
The scientific community stresses that taking adequate levels of chromium is important in promoting insulin regulation, brain health, and overall immunity. However, data from the University of Maryland Medical Center show that 90 percent of Americans fail to get enough chromium in their diet.
Chromium can be found in great abundance in many fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, potatoes and pears, as well as apples, bananas, and green beans. Red meat, poultry, and shellfish are also excellent sources of chromium.
Other dietary sources of chromium include cereal grains, molasses, mushrooms, organ meats, and eggs as well as cheese, nuts, and brewer’s yeast.
Medicinal uses for chromium
Chromium’s primary function is to bolster insulin function and regulate the body’s blood sugar levels, a Live Strong article notes. This is especially beneficial in patients with types 1 and 2, gestational, and steroid-induced diabetes. Previous studies have demonstrated that the mineral helps increase the body’s glucose tolerance and improve insulin’s capacity to bind to cells. The nutrient is also shown to induce healthy weight loss, especially when combined with diet and exercise.
The essential mineral is touted to bolster brain health as well. A past research reveals that chromium supplementation helps improve memory in older adults who are at risk of cognitive decline. The nutrient is also known to slash carbohydrate craving, improve eating habits, and stabilize mood in patients suffering from depression. Chromium is found to effectively reduce the amount of stress hormone in the bloodstream too.
An article posted on the Self Hacked website adds that chromium fortifies the body’s overall immunity against various types of infection. According to the article, the essential mineral helps counter the adverse side effects of anti-retroviral drugs in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
In addition, chromium is shown to boost heart health. Animal studies reveal that hamsters given a combination of grape seed extract and niacin-bound chromium exhibited significant declines in total bad cholesterol levels. Likewise, the research notes that the nutrient helped repair both cellular damage and plaque buildup in the animal models.
Chromium is found to effectively alleviate inflammation too. In addition, the essential mineral is known to facilitate the release of cell signaling compounds that bolster bone resorption.
Furthermore, the nutrient is touted to promote women’s health. According to previous studies, chromium supplementation helps address acne and reduce the levels of protein that triggers heart attack. The mineral is also found to effectively rid the body of disease-causing free radicals.
Body systems supported by chromium
Chromium’s insulin-regulating properties are particularly beneficial in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Likewise, the mineral is especially useful in maintaining brain health and preventing related disorders. Chromium is also remarkably helpful in promoting heart health and enhancing bone strength. The nutrient boosts the body’s overall immunity as well. Furthermore, chromium is known to improve female health.
Where to learn more
- Chromium prevents diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity
- Chromium Picolinate May Ease Hunger, Appetite
- Only One Chromium Supplement Helps People with Diabetes
- Chromium – Powerful Mineral For Your Health
- Dangers of high blood sugar can be alleviated with cinnamon, chromium and bitter melon
Summary
Chromium promotes insulin function and prevent diabetes.
Chromium prevents cognitive decline, depression, and stress.
Chromium relieves inflammation and staves off infections.
Chromium lowers cholesterol and wards off cellular damage.
Chromium promotes digestive health, brain health, and overall immunity.
Chromium improves bone strength and cardiovascular profile.
Chromium effectively supports women’s health.
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