Chromium (Symbol Cr, Latin; Greek chroma colour)-A blue-white, brittle metal. We see chromium everyday when we look at older car bumpers ! That shiny metal which gleaming after a good wash is chrome (chromium). We also require this element for survival. Chromium is requred in trace amounts, and therefore, also called a trace mineral. Chromium plays a role in glucose metabolism, by acting as a cofactor for the insulin molecule. In those with chromium deficiencies, ingested glucose is not taken up as readily by peripheral tissues, due to decreased insulin sensitivity.

RDA of chromium

Although there yet no established RDA for chromium, it is essential in the diet. Chromium is present in all organic matter. Therefore, humans obtain chromium on a daily basis. Western diets present anywhere fro 10-100 micrograms of chromium per day. Additionally, many multivitamins also include chromium as a component. Chromium is prepared for dietary purposes (ie., supplements) is combined with different substances. For example, in nuttition stores, you may see chromium on the shelf as chromium piccolinate. You may also notice that there is quite a variation in price for different brands, and types of chromium. Regardless of the brand, chromium is chromium. Compare the different combinations for price to get the best deal. Of course you can just eat a normal diet and obtain chromium for free. You can also obtain high amounts of chromium from brewer's yeast. Because brewer's yeast contains organic chromium, it is referred to as a 'glucose tolerance factor' (abbr. GTF). A GTF is more biologically active than inorganic chromium salts. Other sources of chromium liver, whoemeal breads, pepper (black). You can also obtain moderate amounts of chromium from beer, yet another reason to sit in front of the television and watch your favourite team in action with your favourite beer in hand.

Toxicity of chromium

An friend of mine once asked me if you can eat chrome from a bumper, since chromium is requred in the diet. Hmmm, interesting, I said.. and of course, any question is fair game in my book.. Well, unfortunately the answer is no. My friend's question, no matter how silly it may sound, sheds light on the fact that there are different forms of chromium. The "trivalent" form is biologically active, and what humans require (and of course this is the type contained in food and supplements). The hexavalent chromium used in industrial processes is carcinogenic (cancer causing).