European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

CHROMIUM AND INSULIN

Dr. Anil Batta*

ABSTRACT

The recent establishment of a daily chromium requirement of 35mcg for men and 25mcg for women by the Institute of Medicine has raised its profile. Few foods are good chromium sources, a recent analysis found. Cereals, particularly high-bran cereals, contribute variable but potentially important amounts of chromium.[2] However, food processing strips chromium from foods, particularly when grains and sugars are refined.[3] Some researchers have long believed the rising rate of type II diabetes is due in part to chromium depletion in the food supply. Chromium appears to make insulin function more efficiently by enhancing the uptake of glucose from the blood into the cell. Chromium increases the number of insulin receptors on the cell membrane and enhances insulin binding to cells. It also activates insulin receptor kinase, leading to increased insulin sensitivity.[5] Because of chromium's role in insulin activity, researchers have looked at using the trace mineral to help diabetics control their blood-sugar levels. Additionally, work has been done on chromium's utility in depression and cholesterol management.

Keywords: chromium requirement, type II diabetes, glucose, cholesterol.