Chromium is the active component in GTF, glucose tolerance factor, a substance vital for the control of blood sugar levels. It works very closely with Insulin in facilitating the uptake of glucose by the cells of the body. Chromium is also able to stimulate protein synthesis and therefore increase muscle mass and bulk.

Functions of Chromium:

Essential for regulation of blood sugar, Involved in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels; increases beneficial HDL cholesterol, Stimulates the synthesis of protein, Helps increase lean muscle mass, Increases resistance to infection, Prevents arteriosclerosis.

Food sources of Chromium include:

Egg Yolk, Molasses, Brewers Yeast, Beef, Cheese, Calf’s Liver, Grape juice, Rye bread, Green bell pepper, Chicken leg, Apple, Spinach, Bananas, Carrots.

Symptoms of Chromium deficiency include:

Hypoglycaemia, Diabetes, Fatigue, mood swings, High blood cholesterol, Atherosclerosis, Obesity.

Chromium deficiency high-risk groups include:

People with diets high in refined/processed food
Prolonged dieters
Pregnant women
Alcoholics

RDA for Chromium:

No official RDA’s as of yet. US Guidelines say 50-200iu daily is a safe, adequate range.