Formerly known as Phytofood Chromium, our Wholefood Chromium is made from a
species of broccoli that has been hydroponically grown in a chromium-rich
environment. As such, it is a wholefood form of the mineral, with high
bioavailability. What is Chromium & what does it do?
Organic chromium is an active ingredient of a substance called GTF (Glucose
Tolerance Factor); niacin & the amino acids cysteine, glutamic acid &
glycine complete the complex. The body contains about 6mg of chromium in
total.
GTF chromium is now being recognised as important in carbohydrate metabolism.
It stimulates the activity of enzymes involved in the metabolism of glucose for
energy & the synthesis of fatty acids & cholesterol. It appears to increase
the effectiveness of insulin & its ability to handle glucose. When chromium
levels are low, GTF levels are low too & the activity of insulin is blocked;
blood glucose levels therefore remain elevated.
Also, diets high in carbohydrates soon begin to exhaust the normal control
mechanisms. The end result is hypoglycaemia, insulin resistance, obesity &
diabetes. Obesity is strongly linked to blood sugar disturbances because of the
increasing sensitivity to insulin.
Best Natural Sources Whole grains, eggs & meat are the
best sources of chromium. Most fruit & vegetables are low in chromium, except
for broccoli, which has a naturally high level.
Absorption & Storage Chromium is difficult to absorb.
Only about 3% of chromium from food is retained in the body. The mineral is
stored primarily in the spleen, kidneys & testes, & small amounts are also
stored in the heart, pancreas, lungs & brain. It has been found in some
enzymes & in RNA. Excretion occurs mainly through urination. The amount stored
in the body decreases with age.
Research & Studies Wholefood GTF chromium is better
absorbed & longer retained than isolated chromium, & is also significantly
less toxic (see references on page 232
- Chromium).
RDAThere is now an RDA for chromium, set at 40µg. The
Council for Responsible Nutrition tells us that the average daily intake in the
Western world is 30µg, & the upper safe limit for supplementation is
200µg. The dietary (natural) form of chromium is trivalent chromium. This has
very low toxicity. Wholefood Chromium is
trivalent. Ingredients
Nutrient
Per Capsule
%RDA
Chromium
100g
250
RDA = Recommended Daily
Allowance Suggested Intake: 1-2
capsules daily, or take as directed by a practitioner. Suitable
for: Vegetarians, vegans & for people with Candida & yeast
sensitivities. Contraindications: None, although
insulin-dependant diabetics are advised to seek medical advice before
supplementing with GTF chromium, as the supplement might alter their insulin
requirements. Non-Active Ingredients: Microcrystalline
cellulose, vegetable magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (capsule shell). Non GM & Free
From: Wheat; starch, gluten; lactose; added colourings, sweeteners &
preservatives. Storage: Keep cool, dry & out of direct
sunlight.