UK HOmeopathy

Living the Natural Way

Health Benefits of Chromium for Diabetics

Chromium is an essential nutrient for sugar and fat metabolism. Without Chromium the body cannot produce a compound called GTF – Glucose Tolerance Factor.

GTF is needed to the proper utilisation of insulin and for diabetics helps maintain a steady blood glucose reading.

A study done in mice found that GTF not only reduced the Plasma Glucose levels but also Triglycerides and Cholesterol levels!

When experimental animals were given a diet free of Chromium they soon developed all the symptoms of diabetes with sugar in the urine.  When Chromium was replaced in the diet, the symptoms promptly cleared up.

In 1997, the results of a placebo- controlled trial conducted in China indicated that Chromium supplements might be beneficial in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. In the study 180 participants took either the placebo, 200mcg/day of Chromium or 1000 mcg/day of Chromium (both in the form of Chromium Picolinate). At the end of four months, blood glucose levels were 15-19% lower in those who took the 1000mcg/day compared to those who took the placebo. Blood glucose levels in those who took 200mcg/day did not differ significantly compared to those who took the placebo.

Insulin and HBA1c levels were lower in both groups that took the Chromium Picolinate.

So what is the best way to get Chromium into us.  A study at the university of California found that Chromium Polynicotinate was absorbed and retained 311 % better than Chromium Picolinate and 672% better than Chromium Chloride.

The Chromium content in food varies considerably. For example refined sugar has 0.02 parts per million whereas molasses has more than 10 times the amount. Raw Sugar or Sugar Cane juice comes with intermediate amount.

Since Chromium is needed to metabolize sugar properly, refined sugar depletes the body of Chromium. The result? Sugar cravings ! Yes the more you eat refined sugar, the more the body craves it!

 

So what foods are rich in Chromium?

We need on average between 20-35mcg per day and although Chromium occurs in many foods, the amount is usually very small- roughly 1-2 micrograms (mcg) per serving. Of course processing methods often remove the naturally occurring Chromium.

However certain foods are known as excellent sources of Chromium. These are :

·         Romaine Lettuce,

·         Onions

·         Tomatoes.

·         Whole Grains

·         Potatoes

·         Brewer’s Yeast

A good multivitamin is probably the way to go to increase your Chromium levels.

For those of you suffering from type 2 diabetes, the good news is that it may be reversible for you. Some of you have either done or are doing my 6 month reversal program and have seen your blood glucose levels fall.

For the others who suffer from it, all I can tell you is that your health is the MOST valuable asset you’ve got. Take care of it and it will take care of you!

If you wish to have a free 15min chat about your diabetes (doesn’t matter where you live, consultations can be done using skype and webcam for those not near enough to me and remedies posted), do give me a call and see if you too may be able to reverse your type 2 diabetes.

By reversal I mean better control with less or no medications. Here’s what one of my patients had to say about the program:

I was introduced to Mohamed back in October 2011 when I was diagnosed with Diabetes (type 2).  Not only the diabetes, I had high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and overweight.  I went to my first visit with an open mind and was determined to reach my goals without taking the Metformin that my GP prescribed.

I have followed a Diabetes reversal programme since November and have experienced so many positive changes.  The programme consists of a diet change, exercise and homeopathic remedies.  I am currently still on the programme and have 3 more consultations.  I had my blood tests after three months and the results indicate that I am technically not Diabetic.  Not only have I lost  4 kilos, my blood pressure has lowered, both my sugar levels and cholesterol levels  have come down.  I have lots of energy and a generally good feel of well being.  Must admit, I haven't felt so good in years.  I feel like I have a new lease of life!         -- WH