General Information
Description:
Chromium helps body use insulin – a hormone that takes part in transfer of glucose to cells, where it is used as energy source. With enough Chromium, body can effectively use insulin and maintain a normal blood sugar level. The element helps body break down proteins and fats.
Chromium can eliminate headache, irritability and other symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), maintaining normal sugar levels and preventing it from falling below normal. In diabetic patients, element helps control blood sugar levels. The biggest controversy is caused by advertising claims that substance promotes weight loss and build-up of muscle mass. Objective data on this issue are contradictory. In the best case, the use of chromium can somewhat accelerate decrease in body weight in combination with proper diet and exercise.
Indications:
Chromium is devoted to the following aspects:
- to improve cleavage of proteins, fats and carbohydrates;
- to maintain normal blood glucose levels;
- to correct lipid profile (can lower blood levels of low-density lipoproteins and triglycerides);
- as an adjuvant at losing weight;
- for prevention of cardiovascular diseases;
- to protect against Parkinson’s disease and depression.
Side Effects and Contraindications:
Trivalent Chromium in recommended doses practically does not cause side reactions, hexavalent chromium can be toxic. The most common side effects are:
- discomfort in stomach;
- nausea;
- vomiting.
Chromium instructions for use determine a harmful effect on heart, kidneys and liver in the case when used in increased dosage.
Some Chromium supplements contain yeast, vital activity of which can interfere with action of a number of medications prescribed to patient. Additives containing chromium can enhance effect of drugs used to treat diabetes, for example, insulin; so people with diabetes should take such supplements only on advice and under the supervision of their doctor. Additives of Chromium are not suitable for use by pregnant and lactating women, people suffering from epilepsy.
Warnings
Patients with diabetes should consult a doctor about possibility of taking chromium. You may need to adjust dosage of insulin and other antidiabetic medications. Doses of some drugs used to treat depression or Parkinson’s disease should be changed. If you are sick, consult your doctor before using these supplements.
Posted by RxMed