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More and more, physicians and nutritional experts are turning to supplements of naturally-occurring vitamins and minerals in food rather than relying solely upon prescription medication that, for some patients, may be unaffordable and/or difficult to use because of unwanted side effects. Chromium supplements are a perfect example of this trend; they are available without a prescription and very affordable when compared to prescription medications. However, before using a chromium supplement, be sure to consult your physician; it is possible that chromium may cause serious side effects when combined with some types of prescription medication.
In addition to this, chromium also plays a major role in weight loss, cholesterol control and muscle strengthening. If you want to know the exact chromium levels in your body, you can do so by measuring the chromium content in the hair and blood. As of today, the Recommended Dietary Allowance for chromium has yet to be established. To be on the safe side, you should take supplements that contain between 20 and 35 mcg daily. Chromium picolinate are also sold as appetite suppressant although evidences that establish its effectiveness in weight loss have yet to be found.
In addition to regulating glucose, chromium plays a major role in weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight, reducing HDL cholesterol levels, increased energy by raising your metabolism, and improving muscle strength. Chromium picolinate is often sold as a weight loss aid, but its true efficiency in this area is still under evaluation by medical research.
How much chromium do you need each day for optimal results and proper nutrition? Currently, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of chromium as determined by the Department of Health has yet to be firmly established. To be safe, try a supplement that contains between 20 and 35 micrograms each day. Although we obtain some chromium from foods, it may be insufficient because chromium is poorly absorbed into the body - hence the need for supplements especially if you are diabetic, pregnant, or breast feeding. Chromium picolinate, sold in supplements, is a combination of beneficial picolinic acid and chromium, making it the easiest form of chromium for your body to absorb.
Yet another reason to consult your physician before taking a chromium supplement is that it may negatively interact with your prescriptions medications and other medicines and supplements. You may also have allergies that could be adversely affected by an increased amount of chromium in your system.
After consulting with your physician, you can find chromium supplements locally in a reputable, well-known local health products store or from an online vendor who delivers your chromium directly to your door. Avoid products that are reduced for “quick sale” because their expiration date has passed. In stores, ask the clerk about the form of chromium you’re considering, and avoid stores where clerks appear uninformed about the store’s products. Online, use the “contact us” drop-down to ask questions about the reliability of your chromium supplement to avoid fake products that not only won’t help you, but may actually harm you! Chromium supplements must be fresh, pure, and guaranteed by the vendor to be “real.” Protect yourself and your health!
