Chromium deficiency: the most effective dietary supplements

Chromium is an essential trace element that plays a key role in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. It is particularly known for its involvement in the Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF), a complex that enhances the interaction between insulin and its receptors, thereby facilitating blood glucose regulation. Because of its role in improving insulin sensitivity, chromium is especially important for people with diabetes and for those at cardiovascular risk. Additionally, it helps improve the lipid profile by increasing levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and reducing total cholesterol. Among the foods richest in chromium are brewer's yeast, egg yolk, spices, meats, and whole grain cereal products. However, refined foods are generally low in chromium, which can increase the risk of deficiency.

Symptoms and consequences of chromium deficiency

Chromium deficiency can lead to serious symptoms, although this condition is relatively rare. Clinical symptoms include unexplained weight loss, glucose intolerance, peripheral neuropathy, and states of confusion. These symptoms are particularly observed in patients receiving total parenteral nutrition without chromium supplementation, where the absence of this trace element can lead to diabetes that is not controllable with insulin. Moreover, chromium deficiency can precipitate the development of insulin resistance, which is associated with hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and obesity. People under stress, who are pregnant, or who consume diets high in simple sugars are particularly at risk of chromium deficiency, as these conditions increase the urinary excretion of this trace element. Furthermore, chromium deficiency can affect the lipid profile and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Diagnosis of deficiency and therapeutic uses

The diagnosis of chromium deficiency is mainly based on blood tests, although these tests can be misleading because serum chromium levels do not always reflect tissue concentrations. Some experts suggest that alternative tests, such as chromium concentration in nails or the urinary glucose response, might provide more accurate information. Therapeutically, chromium supplementation is used to prevent and treat deficiency symptoms, particularly in patients with glucose intolerance or rapid weight loss. Although chromium-based drugs are not yet widely available in France, chromium-rich dietary supplements are used to maintain adequate levels of this trace element, especially in at-risk individuals. Recommended daily intakes of chromium vary depending on age, sex, and health status. For a healthy adult, intakes generally range between 25 and 70 µg per day, with slightly higher requirements for men than for women. For people with risk factors such as diabetes or metabolic disorders, higher doses, up to 200 µg per day, may be considered under medical supervision.