ABSTRACT
Chromium functions in glucose metabolism primarily through its action of insulin potentiation; much higher amounts of insulin are required at suboptimal levels of chromium both in vivo and in vitro. Chromium functions not only in increasing the activity of insulin, but with this increased activity less insulin is required. However, decreased intake of these foods may only be part of the solution, and an increased intake of trace elements, especially chromium, may also be important in lessening the chances of developing cardiovascular diseases, maturity-onset diabetes. Fortunately, dietary improvements, including decreasing dietary intake of fat, cholesterol, sugar, and other refined carbohydrates, would be associated with the increased intake of more nutritional foods, including fruits and vegetables, that are usually lower in fat, cholesterol, refined carbohydrates, and often good sources of chromium.
