Weight Loss and Trace Minerals!
- scrunchyconservativemom
- Jan 26
- 5 min read
Chromium: The Essential Mineral for Supporting Insulin Function
The human body is made up of many complex systems that require all sorts of minerals. Chromium is one of those minerals that is essential for our human health. So what exactly is an essential trace mineral? Essential trace minerals are minerals our body needs in small amounts to function. Although minute they are vital for our health. One of those trace minerals is chromium. Krow·mee·uhm what is that and why haven’t I ever heard of it? Chromium is a mineral that plays a significant role in blood sugar regulation and insulin sensitivity.
In recent years we have seen diabetes in all age groups increase. In fact the CDC reported “An estimated 97.6 million adults aged 18 years or older had pre-diabetes in 2021.” That was four years ago. There are many factors and reasons for this increase. Regardless of the why! We have all become heightened to the seriousness of it and looking for natural ways to support insulin function and blood sugar levels.
Lets dive into Chromium! Chromium is a trace mineral necessary to enhance insulin sensitivity. Insulin sensitivity refers to your body’s ability to identify glucose, use it and store it. What is a trace mineral and why do we need them? Trace minerals are minerals that the body needs in small amounts to perform its proper functions. Chromium is one of those minerals the body needs in small amounts to perform the regulation of glucose. Glucose is the main type of sugar that our body uses. Glucose is our body’s main source of energy. We eat food of all kinds of different types of food. Our body takes that food and processes it into energy. To process that food trace mineral like Chromium are needed.
There are two main forms of Chromium. One is safe and one is toxic. Just when you thought you understood things they get tricky. Trivalent chromium is safe and found in foods we eat. The other is hexavalent chromium is produced by industrial processes like metalworking, cement plants, wood staining, pigments and dyes. So don’t eat any of those things!
Let’s go back to discussing the Chromium we actually can eat; Trivalent Chromium. You will find Chromium in many foods and in is needed by our body to regulate blood sugar. Chromium works to improve insulins sensitivity in the body. Insulin is a hormone that helps sugar enter the body’s cells and transfer into energy. Chromium comes in to help your body improve the sensitivity of the cells to insulin. Therefore, Chromium helps the cells respond more effectively to insulin signals. That all translates to a more efficient uptake of glucose from the bloodstream, to help lower blood sugar levels.
Chromium and Insulin Function
Chromium amplifies the insulin signal pathways inside the cells. It attaches to a small protein (chromodulin) that then enhances the activity of the insulin receptors on the outside of the cell. This enhancement of the insulin receptors is what it means to promote insulin sensitivity. When you improve the signaling insulin can do a better job at transporting glucose. When glucose enters the cells, it is used as energy or is stored. Chromium supports the enzymes involved in glucose metabolism, ensuring that glucose is broken down and utilized efficiently. Helping to maintain the stability of blood sugar levels. As well as ensuring that the body has a steady supply of energy.
Studies dating back years have shown that Chromium supplementation leads to better glucose control. According to A scientific review: the role of chromium in insulin resistance there was a significant reduction in insulin resistance. They have also noted that individuals with type 2 diabetes have lower blood levels of chromium than those without diabetes.
Lets review the health benefits of Chromium. Chromium helps improve blood sugar control. Especially beneficial for people with insulin resistance or diabetes. Chromium improves blood sugar control by helping reduce insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when cells become less responsive to insulin which often leads to high blood sugar levels. Chromium supplements have been shown to help reduce insulin resistance by making it easier for the body to regulate its blood sugar levels. By enhancing insulin’s effectiveness, chromium plays a vital role in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, supporting metabolic health, and reducing the risk of complications associated with poor blood sugar control.
Chromium plays a vital role in supporting macronutrient metabolism by helping the body effectively process carbohydrates (my favorite food group), proteins, and fats (my second favorite food group). First let’s talk about my favorite food group; carbohydrates. Carbohydrate metabolism is enhanced by glucose utilization. Chromium helps insulin function more efficiently. How? When carbs are consumed, they are broken down into glucose which enters the bloodstream. Insulin with the help of chromium facilitates the uptake of glucose into the cells for energy production. Chromium also helps regulate blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity. This helps the body prevent spikes and crashes that can happen when you consume carbs.
Chromium supports amino acid utilization in protein metabolism. Protein protein protein and more protein is what our diets should consist of. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Chromium enhances and helps the body use insulin effectively by using amino acids for muscle repair, growth, and other vital functions.
Chromium helps facilitate fat breakdown. It contributes to the regulation of lipids by aiding insulin in the process of breaking down fats into fatty acids. These fatty acids can then be used as an energy source or stored for future use.
In summary chromium impacts macronutrients metabolism by energy production and weight management. Enhancing the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats chromium ensures that the body can efficiently produce and utilize energy. This is a critical function for overall energy and supporting bodily functions. Blood sugar stability can help reduce cravings, promote satisfaction which then supports healthy weight management.
Where is Chromium? The best source of Chromium is natural. Its actually in many of the foods your eating but are you eating enough of them. Foods that contain chromium include beef, broccoli, green beans, apples, bananas, corn, peas, whole grains, brazil nuts, as well as eggs, cheeses, molasses, and some fish. Chromium supplements can be helpful if you are looking to support your blood sugar regulation and metabolic health. It is good to look for a high-quality chromium supplement that fits your needs. The recommended daily dose of chromium is between 50 to 200 micrograms per day. Always check with your healthcare provider to determine the right dose for you specifically. Consider the form and how it is absorbed by your body. Look for reputable brands that have been in business for many years. Brands that are third-party tested for quality and purity. Try to avoid brands that insert other ingredients like additives, dyes, artificial fillers. Choosing supplements that are non-GMO and made in the United States is recommended. By selecting high-quality chromium supplements in the right form, dosage, and source you can effectively support your insulin function and overall metabolic well-being. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
For a small amount mineral in the body, it sure does do a lot. It is highly recommended to incorporate chromium into your diet and daily routine. You can achieve this by adding chromium rich foods into your diet or supplementation. There are many benefits of chromium for insulin function, weight loss, increase energy production, increased metabolic function, reduce cravings and improve your overall health.
My personal favorite Chromium supplement is GC Control by Melaleuca
Reference:
Havel PJ. A scientific review: the role of chromium in insulin resistance. Diabetes Educ. 2004;Suppl:2-14. PMID: 15208835.
Comments