Chromium

Chromium is an essential trace mineral and a necessary component for the breakdown of protein, fat, and carbohydrates; in addition chromium plays an important role in glucose metabolism and the regulation of insulin. Chromium's effects are enhanced when taken with niacin (vitamin B3) and may help play a role in normalizing blood sugar levels in those with diabetes. This trace mineral has also been shown to lower blood sugar, increase insulin sensitivity, and may be helpful in reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

There are three main supplemental forms of chromium, including chromium polynicotinate (ChromeMate), chromium picolinate (ChromeMax), and chromium chloride. All three forms of chromium are absorbed equally well by the body.

Deficiencies in chromium are rare because this mineral is readily available in the foods we eat. However when deficiencies do occur it may be associated with glucose intolerance and/or insulin resistance.

Chromium & Weight Loss

Chromium's role as a weight loss supplement is hotly contested. Some studies show that chromium does in fact promote weight loss, while other studies are unable to duplicate similar findings.

Those who maintain that chromium is an effective weight loss aid argue that supplementing with chromium helps to normalize blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and improve glucose tolerance. They claim the result of normalized blood sugar levels alone help to control appetite and reduce carvings for sweets.

Is Chromium Safe?

The typical safe adult dosage of chromium is 50 to 200mcg daily, taken with food. However, those supplementing with chromium as part of a weight loss program have been known to take up to 400mcg daily.

It's very important not to take too much chromium, individuals who have exceeded 1,000mcg daily for an extended period of time have experienced kidney failure, liver dysfunction, anemia, renal failure, and blood abnormalities. Since chromium is regularly included in many multivitamins it's important to read the labels of all dietary supplements consumed to ensure safe chromium levels are not exceeded.

There are few side effects when supplementing with chromium, however some people may experience mild gastrointestinal upset.

Diet Pills Containing Chromium

Diet Pill Ingredients

Caffeine - Powerful metabolic stimulant and appetite suppressant.
Calcium - May play a key role in fat storage and breakdown.
Chromium - May help to maintain blood sugar levels & suppress appetite.
Garcinia Cambogia - Rich in hydroxycitric acid, a natural carbohydrate inhibitor.
Green Tea - Packed full of potent anti-oxidants for optimum health.
Guarana - Potent source of caffeine and natural stimulant.
Hoodia Gordonii - The slimming cactus.
L-Tyrosine - Mood enhancing & metabolism boosting amino acid.
L-Carnitine - Essential for increased fat oxidation.
Niacin - Vitamin B3, lowers LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Scutellaria Root - Drought hardy perennial native to southwest China.
Thiamin - Vitamin B1, the "brain energizer" vitamin.
White Willow Bark - Traditional pain reliever and anti-inflammatory.
Yerba Mate - A medium sized evergreen plant native to South America.