ABSTRACT
In the human, a deficiency of chromium may result in increased plasma LDL-cholesterol levels, impaired glucose and amino acid utilization, and peripheral neuropathy. Blood and urine chromium measurements have been conducted as a possible means of identifying a chromium deficiency. Urinary excretion of chromium has not been established as a means of evaluating chromium nutritional status. Trivalent chromium, the form present in diets, is considered safe with no harmful effects recognized. Satisfactory measurements to evaluate chromium nutritional status are not available. Serum, plasma, and urine concentrations of chromium have been studied, often in conjunction with glucose loads, but the results are difficult to interpret and apply to the assessments of chromium status. Dietary studies of adult subjects in the US indicate that their chromium intakes are below the minimum safe and adequate chromium intake suggested by the Recommended Dietary Allowance.
