Chrome

What is chromium?

Chromium (also known as Chromium) is one of the essential trace elements that must be obtained through diet, as the body cannot produce it itself. At the same time, it is a vital mineral, similar to magnesium. In general, trace elements are inorganic nutrients that humans need in small amounts. The lungs, liver, spleen, and bones are the main storage sites for chromium. In the blood, it is bound to transport proteins such as albumin. Especially for carbohydrate metabolism and the regulation of blood sugar levels, this vital substance has particular importance. It also plays an important role in thyroid function and protein synthesis. The requirement for adults is less than 1 mg per day.Chrom occurs in various compounds in nature. In micronutrient medicine and supplementation, the form chromium(III)  is meant. It is the most bioavailable for humans and we also find it in food. Other forms, such as chromium(VI), are toxic to humans and are used in industry.

Where is the vital substance found?

Chromium can be found in both plant and animal foods. Whole grain wheat products, corn, and Edam cheese contain larger amounts. But beans, nuts (especially Brazil nuts), fruits (such as blueberries), and meat also contain a significant amount of this trace element. It is worth noting that the content in dairy products is subject to significant fluctuations, as the feeding of the animals further influences this. This also applies to eggs.Chromium from food is only stored in small amounts. A deficiency usually occurs rarely, but due to stress, pregnancy, or intense training, it can develop more quickly. In most cases, a lower level leads to a insulin resistance, which resembles the symptoms of diabetes mellitus. These include, among others, concentration difficulties, nervousness, confusion, and muscle weakness.

What functions does the molecule have in the human body?

The essential trace element recognized only since 1959 chromium decreases in concentration with age. The vital substance has many important metabolic functions in the human body. Medical studies primarily demonstrate a positive influence on glucose metabolism.The molecule acts on the blood sugar hormone insulin, allowing sugar to enter the body cells from the blood. This lowers blood sugar levels. Thus, chromium serves to maintain glucose tolerance and counteract an insulin resistance. The latter causes cells to hardly or not take up glucose from the blood anymore, leading to even more insulin being released. Our pancreas produces insulin. More specifically, chromium improves the usability of glucose present in the blood (the smallest carbohydrate unit) by increasing the sensitivity of cell receptors to the hormone insulin. As a result, glucose is better absorbed by the cells. Therefore, the intake of sugar leads to an increased release of chromium from the liver stores.A deficiency leads to insulin being unable to fully exert its effect on the insulin receptors. This mechanism is significant for both diabetics and non-diabetics. Chromium is a component of the glucose tolerance factor (GTF), which improves insulin utilization.

Chromium is found in BERBERSOME  – an innovative molecular complex for improving insulin resistance and glucose tolerance.