Chrome is an important mineral that plays a role in glucose metabolism as part of the chromodulin molecule, which helps the hormone insulin carry out its function in the body. Insulin is a hormone released by the pancreas, thanks to which glucose can enter cells through cell receptors to which insulin binds. Insulin resistance, defined as the body's impaired response to insulin, is a pre-diabetic phase progressing to full-blown type 2 diabetes that prevents glucose from entering cells and being used. In this way, excess glucose is converted into fat and stored in the body – in the liver, subcutaneous tissue, etc. Chromium affects glucose metabolism and enables faster transport of glucose across the membrane by another mechanism independent of insulin – by activating the AMPK enzyme. Several studies have shown that activation of AMPK by drugs or other natural means increases glucose transport in muscles, independent of the action of insulin! The addition of chromium stimulates the activation of AMPK, which leads to lower cholesterol levels in the cell membrane and better glucose transport.
Reducing hunger
Weight loss
Products containing chromium picolinate
When we need more chromium
- In conditions of diabetes and insulin resistance, because chromium enhances the action of insulin, and any chromium deficiency causes glucose regulation disorders.
- In the case of increased triglyceride levels and decreased HDL levels – good cholesterol.
- In all weight loss diets, especially in middle-aged and older people who have insulin resistance, diabetes, high blood pressure, so in general, these are factors that prevent and complicate the weight loss process!
- In trauma and stress, because the hormones secreted in stressful situations (glucagon and cortisol) change the metabolism of glucose and, therefore, chromium itself.
- In polycystic ovary syndrome, because it is associated with insulin resistance.
- In the aging process, because research shows that the concentration of chromium in the body decreases with age, so the older population is more likely to be chromium deficient compared to the younger population.
- With constant physical exertion, because chromium is excreted in the urine, which means that it is additionally needed by athletes and all those who practice sports recreationally.
