Insulin is crucial in regulating proper blood sugar levels and stimulating thermogenesis. Chromium decreases weight yet increases lean body mass. The decreases in cholesterol and triglycerides are most dramatic if the initial body chromium levels are low. Tests have shown that chromium deficiency is common in the United States due to the soil being depleted of minerals. The refining of foods and the high intake of sugars and refined carbohydrates may also contribute to chromium deficiency and possible aggravates adult-onset diabetes.
Chromium deficiency is most likely to occur in the elderly, pregnant women and athletes.
Studies have shown that chromium blood levels drop with the administration of glucose. Chromium should be supplemented in postoperative patients receiving glucose intravenously for nourishment. The trivalent form of chromium is the dietary and supplemental kind and is extremely safe. There is no official RDA for chromium. The best sources of chromium are meat and whole grain products.