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Deciphering the benefits of chromium.
With a significant role in the body’s control of blood sugar, chromium has long been known for its effect on sugar metabolism. This mineral assists in moving insulin out of the bloodstream and into the cells that need it for fuel.
Chromium is useful for those with adult-onset diabetes, where patients lose the ability to move sugar out of the bloodstream effectively. In fact, many diabetic and nondiabetic patients report that the nutrient can help curb sugar cravings at a minimum dosage of 600-1200 mcg a day. Typically, sugar cravings will not be completely resolved when consuming chromium, but it does provide support for a desire that can contribute to significant health issues.
Chromium can also be beneficial to those with high blood sugar, however supplementing for use as a fat-burner or to fight depression has been poorly supported by data.
Supplements of this safe nutrient typically come in 200-500 mcg dosages. Adult-onset diabetes patients can typically begin with 500-600 mcg daily and track any possible effects on the blood sugar through home monitoring. If the blood sugars continue to run high, the dosage can be increased to 800-1000 mcg per day, in divided doses.
Signs of low blood sugar, such as fatigue, light-headedness, irritability or weakness, are rare but might occur in patients with a history of this condition. In this case, the dosage might need to be lowered or discontinued.
Kidney disease is a common complication in the progression of poorly controlled diabetes. Patients with kidney disease should always consult their physician before starting any aggressive supplement program. Chromium can still be beneficial, but starting doses should be low, 200-400 mcg daily.
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