chromium
Last reviewed 10/2023
Chromium is a trace mineral. It is found in high concentrations in:
- brewer's yeast, wine and some beer
- corn oil
- whole grains
Chromium is absorbed as an organic complex termed 'glucose tolerance factor'. It is necessary for the proper utilisation of dietary sugars and other carbohydrates by optimising the production and effects of insulin.
There is no discrete syndrome associated with chromium deficiency but animal models suggest that it would be associated with glucose intolerance. This may be present and masked in patients on TPN who are not receiving chromium.