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WHAT DOES CHROMIUM DO?
Chromium is an essential trace mineral, meaning that we need small amounts of it that our bodies can’t produce. The mineral helps the hormone insulin with the metabolism of carbohydrates, fat and protein. Chromium also normalizes blood sugar levels, and chromium supplements are being studied as a way to control blood sugar in people who have diabetes or are at risk for it.
HOW MUCH CHROMIUM DO YOU NEED?
The recommendations for adequate intake of chromium are:
Some people, such as those who need help controlling blood sugar, may need more of the mineral.|
WHERE CAN YOU GET CHROMIUM?
Brewer’s yeast (also known as nutritional yeast) is the richest source of the mineral, but whole grains, meat and some fruits and vegetables are good sources of chromium. The amount of chromium in grains, fruits and vegetables depends somewhat on the amount of the mineral present in the soil in which they were grown.
| FOOD | SERVING SIZE | AMOUNT OF CHROMIUM (mcg) |
| Brewer’s yeast | 2 tbsp | 168 |
| Peas | 1 cup | 62 |
| Corn | 1 cup | 61 |
| Sea scallops | 4 oz | 60 |
| Beef (round) | 4 oz | 56 |
| Clams | 4 oz | 49 |
| Sole | 4 oz | 46 |
| Sweet potato | 1 cup | 41 |
| Potato | 1 medium | 38 |
| Lobster | 4 oz | 37 |
| Apple, with skin | 1 medium | 36 |
| Wheat berries, cooked | 1 cup | 36 |
| Beer (average) | 12 oz | 34 |
| Broccoli, cooked | 1 cup | 30 |
You can look up the chromium content of other foods by referencing the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference.
Most of us get enough chromium through our diets. There’s some evidence that chromium supplements can help with cholesterol management, but the results are mixed. Contrary to locker room chatter, the latest research does not appear to support the idea that chromium supplements help build muscle and burn fat.
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