Chromium

Chromium works with insulin to transfer glucose and other nutrients from the bloodstream into the body's cells. Chromium deficiency results in a condition much like diabetes, in which the blood glucose level is abnormally high. Chromium also plays an important role in the body's metabolism of lipids. Although chromium has been advertised as helping you lose weight and put on muscle, well-designed research studies have not shown these effects.

Chromium is widely distributed throughout the food supply, but many foods contribute only small amounts of this nutrient. Good sources of chromium are whole, unprocessed foods, such as whole grains and breads and cereals made with whole grains, wheat germ, and nuts. The richest source is brewer's (nutritional) yeast.

Because it is difficult for scientists to identify who is deficient in chromium, it is not known if chromium deficiency is a concern in otherwise healthy people. It is also not known whether chromium supplements, such as chromium picolinate, are harmful for humans. Studies have shown large doses can be harmful to animals.