Chromium Deficiency
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While many people will not be deficient in chromium, recent scientific research suggests that many people have low chromium levels, which can cause a variety of adverse effects on health, particularly on insulin and glucose levels. Current scientific research suggests that half of the population may be at risk of chromium deficiency.
The people who may be most likely to be deficient in chromium:
- People who engage in strenuous physical activity
People who engage in strenuous physical activity are using up a lot more of the chromium and glucose for energy and therefore have a much higher requirement for glucose for energy than people who are more sedentary. Chromium's effect on the cells uptake of glucose means that these people may need more chromium as they are using up most of it through their physical activity. - People who consume excessive amounts of sugary foods
People who consume a great deal of foods high in sugar could be deficient in chromium due to the excessive amount of glucose in the blood (from the excessive sugar intake) which requires more chromium to enable the cells to intake for energy. - Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
Women who are pregnant have a much higher requirement of chromium because they need to supply an adequate amount of chromium to their unborn foetus and nursing child, as well as to supply enough for their own body's needs. - The elderly
The utilisation of chromium naturally decreases with age, so people who are older can become deficient in this mineral. - People who are glucose intolerant or insulin resistant
People who are glucose intolerant or insulin resistant may be deficient in chromium. Many studies show that people with glucose intolerance or insulin resistance are more likely to have a chromium deficiency.
People in the groups above should seek the advice of their doctor before trying chromium supplements to ensure that supplementation will not cause adverse effects in their individual circumstances.
Current scientific research suggests that half of any given population may be at risk of chromium deficiency
Chromium Deficiency Symptoms
Symptoms of chromium deficiency include:
- Anxiety
- Atherosclerosis
- High blood cholesterol levels
- High blood insulin levels
- High blood pressure
- High blood triglycerides levels
- Impaired glucose tolerance
- Nerve degeneration
- Weight loss
People who are at risk of chromium deficiency should consult their doctor for advice about whether supplementation of chromium would be useful in their circumstance.