Chromium helps to prevent and lower high blood pressure. It can also deter diabetes because it works with insulin in the metabolism of blood sugar. This trace mineral helps transport protein where it is needed in your body.

Other Benefits:

• Helps improve glucose uptake in elderly people when loss comes as natural result of aging.
• May help prevent hardening of the arteries.

Signs of Deficiency:

• Adult-onset diabetes
• Most people get only about half the level of chromium that nutritionists recommend.

Sources:

• Brewers' yeast
• Meat products
• Chicken
• Shellfish; especially clams
• Corn oil
• Whole grains

RDA: None

Optimal Level: From dietary sources