Most people know Chromium as a chemical element on the periodic table. However, Chromium is an important part of an individual's diet and overall nutrition.
Indeed there are both natural and synthetic sources of dietary Chromium and thus you may be looking to learn more about this element and its potential benefits and risks as a diet pill or nutritional supplement. Let thefitmap.com work to answer your questions and resolve your uncertainty!
Chromium has in the past been toted as a miracle muscle mass builder, an aide in weight loss and a potential treatment for diabetes and heart disease; however little scientific evidence has been presented to support these claims. It is however an important nutritional mineral in an individual's diet as it contributes to the processing and absorption of fats and carbohydrates.
In addition it has also been found to help in the process undertaken by insulin in the blood to transform glucose into energy for cells. Natural sources of this mineral include cereals and grains, green beans, seafood, prunes, broccoli, potatoes and nuts. It is uncertain exactly how much of this mineral is needed in order to remain healthy however deficiency is very rare and thus there is often little need to take supplements.
Chromium exists in many forms, some benign and some more toxic and dangerous such as the hexavalent form or Chrome VI. This carcinogenic form has been said to facilitate the mutation of chromosomes, causing cancer. If ingested or inhaled, the hexavalent form of this element can cause damage to the skin, eyes and mucous membranes and can eventually become fatal. In addition, preliminary studies into Chrome III have determined that this form may also react negatively with antioxidants resulting in DNA damage and alteration.
In truth, little is known about the long term health impacts and effects of this mineral and thus it is wise to consult not only thefitmap.com, but also your doctor for more information to keep you healthy!
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