Chromium is an essential trace mineral that enhances insulin action and influences the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It has been suggested that could be used as an adjunct to facilitate weight loss and improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. This article examines the information thereon, and offer recommendations on their use.

Sources of chromium (Cr)

When we speak of chromium in foods is necessary for our body, we refer to trivalent chromium (Cr3 + or Cr (III)). Chromium is present in the air, water, land and in many foods. However, as in the case of other trace elements, the amount in food is limited and varies depending on exposure to chromium in the environment and during the manufacturing process. In general, meat, seafood, fish, eggs, whole grains, nuts and some fruits and vegetables are rich sources of chromium.

Function in the body.

The biological significance of chromium was discovered in the late ’50s, when it was found that yeast prevented the decreased ability to maintain normal levels of blood sugar, linked to aging, in laboratory rats. The active ingredient was identified as an organic form of chromium that is called “factor glucose tolerance” or FTG2. The exact nature of the FTG and the mechanism by which potentates the action of insulin in the body is not yet fully understood, but could promote the cellular uptake of insulin by facilitating their transfer across cell membranes.

Controlling blood sugar level.

In type 2 diabetes if the pancreas produces enough insulin, the cells of muscles and other tissues are resistant to its action, resulting in inadequate control of blood sugar levels. Several studies have examined the effects of chromium supplementation in people affected by type 2 diabetes. A recent meta-analysis that integrated the results of 41 studies found that chromium supplements appear to improve blood sugar control among people with type 2 diabetes. However, the authors warn of the need for well-designed clinical studies can confirm this resultado3. People without diabetes have shown no improvement in their blood sugar levels after ingestion of chromium supplements.

Weight Loss.

Due to the influence of chromium on the metabolism of sugar and fat, researchers have explored its potential to promote weight loss and improve body composition (less fat and more muscle). Although some early studies showed that chromium supplements were associated with greater weight and fat loss compared with placebo, subsequent studies have failed to replicate these results. Recently, a randomized double-blind study conducted with women consuming similar diets (with constant levels of energy and nutrients) with or without supplemental chromium, found that these did not influence weight loss or fat to a greater extent than placebo4.

Consumption insurance.

Studies on the importance of chromium are scarce. However, several nutrition-related organizations from Germany, Austria and Switzerland believe that the adequate daily intake of chromium for adolescents and adults would be around 30-100 μg5. This amount is in line with the amount recommended by the EU, which is 40 mg Cr3 + to Dia6. Studies show that the European average diets of adults contain 60 micrograms (Germany) to 160 micrograms (Sweden) of chromium per day5.

Although it is unlikely to consume harmful amounts of chromium in the diet, chromium may be added to make foods and supplements of this substance are quite popular. Thus, there is some concern about the possibility that excessive doses of chromium have negative effects on DNA and many think it should rethink its use as a nutritional supplement and insulina7 enhancer. However, the European Scientific Committee on Food said: “In a limited number of human studies have found no evidence of adverse effects associated with consumption of chromium supplementation with a maximum dose of 1 mg of chromium
to day5.

A balanced diet.

Since chromium is found in many foods, eating a balanced diet should provide the necessary amount of chromium. Currently, there is no evidence to support the need for the general population using chromium supplements.

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