Chromium (Cr)

What is chrome?

Chromium (Cr) is a mineral that the body needs in small amounts (a trace element) and must be supplied via the diet. Among other things, chromium helps insulin to regulate blood sugar. Chromium supplements can therefore have a stabilizing effect on blood sugar.

What does chromium do for the body?

Chromium is involved in the regulation of blood sugar. Chromium is part of a compound called glucose tolerance factor (GTF), which enhances the action of insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar.

Chromium is important for the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates.

Sources of chromium in the diet

Chromium is found, among other things, in meat, fish, almonds, nuts, dried apricots, shellfish, r and whole grain products.

Recommended daily intake of chromium

There are no recommendations for daily intake of chromium in Norway. In food supplements there can be a maximum of 125 µg (micrograms) of chromium. Daily intake that exceeds this should be discussed with the doctor.

Breast milk contains the necessary minerals the child needs, so supplements are not recommended for children under 6 months unless a doctor or health nurse says otherwise.

What happens when there is a lack of chromium?

Chromium deficiency is very rare in Norway. A lack of chromium can, among other things, lead to high blood sugar and sugar in the urine.

What happens with too much chromium intake?

There is little risk of chromium poisoning via food or normal doses of chromium supplements, but excessive intake of chromium supplements over time can cause the body to absorb too little iron.