Because it is involved in the metabolism of glucose, Chromium (sometimes also called glucose tolerance factor of GTF) is needed for energy. It is vital in the synthesis of cholesterol, fats, and proteins. This essential mineral maintains stable blood sugar levels through proper insulin utilization, and can be helpful both for people with diabetes and those with hypoglycemia. Studies have shown that low plasma chromium levels can be an indication of coronary artery disease.
Additional chromium is needed during pregnancy because the developing fetus increases demand for this mineral. Chromium supplements can help an expectant mother maintain healthy blood sugar levels during pregnancy.
The average American diet is chromium deficient. Only one in the Americans has an adequate amount of chromium in his or her diet. There are five main reasons for this:
- The form of chromium in many foods is not easily absorbed (only 0.4 to 2.5 percent of dietary chromium is absorbed)
- Not enough foods containing chromium are consumed
- Much of the chromium is lost during processing
- Many people do not like the foods that are the best sources of chromium
- High quantities of sugar in the diet cause of loss of chromium from the body
