Chromium is an essential mineral that is not made by the body and must be obtained from the diet.
Function
Chromium is important in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Chromium stimulates fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis, which are important for brain function and other body processes. Chromium is also important in the breakdown (metabolism) of insulin.
Food Sources
The best source of chromium is brewer's yeast, but many people do not use brewer's yeast because it causes bloating (abdominal distention) and nausea.
Other good sources of chromium include the following:
- Beef
- Liver
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Oysters
- Wheat germ
- Green peppers
- Apples
- Bananas
- Spinach
Black pepper, butter, and molasses are also good sources of chromium.
