Chromium
Posted on February 21, 2015
240 Views
chromium in GTF stimulates insulin
Description of Chromium
Chromium is an essential trace element for man, animals and plants.
It help suppress hunger and is a natural supplement that helps regulate blood sugar metabolism.
Sugar is partically destroyed by chromium. Chromium is a natural and very effective insulin regulator and is essential for insulin to work in the body.
Glucose tolerance factor (GTF) – stimulates insulin activity directly by binding to both insulin itself and specific insulin receptors.
Chromium alone does not do this.
It stimulates the burning of glucose for energy,
Controls blood cholesterol levels,
Reduces fat levels in the blood,
Increases HDL cholestrerol,
Stimulates protein synthesis,
Increases resistance to infection and helps in the manufacture of natural cholesterol
( levels rise when chromium is lacking).
Function of Chromium
Chromium is present in the glucose tolerance factor
GTF stimulates insulin activity
GTF appears to be an essential co-facotr in providing glucose transport and uptake of it by the muscles and tissues
It is also involved in the synthesis of fats and cholesterol
Deficiency Effects of Cromium
May be a factor in diabetes and high cholesterol levels.
Dr Henry Schroeder compared chromium fed rats with a control group on a low chromium diet.
The rats given chromium grew faster and lived longer.
They had normal blood sugar levels, low blood cholesterol levels and did not develop atherosclerotic plaques in the aortas.
The low chromium group had elevated blood sugar and blood cholesterol levels and 20% exhibited aortic plaques.
Dosage and Toxicity
There is no recommended daily allowance for chromium however the eastimated range is 80-100mcg daily (Nutrition Almanac).
Signs of Deficiency
Chromium supplements help normalize glucose metabolism.
To little chromium Can cause hypoglycaemia, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, heart attack, strokes and nervousness.
Severe malnutrition, alcohol and pregnancy may be deficiency causes.
Symptoms include irritability, mental confusion, depression and symptoms similar to diabetes such as thirst, hunger, weight loss and frequent passing of urine.
All refined foods are low in chromium because refining removes the mineral and many of the trace elements.
Chromium works with insulin to help the cells take up glucose and break it down for energy.
It also helps against the toxic effects of lead.
Good Food Sources of Cromium
Brewer’s yeast, whole grain cereals, egg yolk, molasses, honey, black pepper, broccoli, potatoes, grape juice, oranges, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, nuts
