Choices in Sports.

Nutritional Supplements: Chromium

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What are the properties of chromium?
What are the adverse effects of using chromium supplements?
What are the natural sources of chromium?

  • What are the properties of chromium?
    Chromium is an essential trace mineral in the body that aids insulin in the transfer of glucose from the bloodstream into the cells. Two basic claims that are made by the manufacturers of this product are weight loss and increase in lean body mass. However, chromium supplements produce results only for individuals who are chromium deficient. Acute aerobic exercise increases chromium losses (Anderson et al. 1982, 1984, and 1988).

  • What are the adverse effects of using chromium supplements?
    Doses of over 200 mcg may lead to anemia.

  • What are the natural sources of chromium?
    Natural sources of chromium are whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. If enough chromium is obtained from a balanced diet no additional benefits are obtained from chromium supplements.

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