Chromium is a mineral essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates. Other benefits include:

• Regulating blood sugar
• Controlling fat and cholesterol levels in the blood
• Prevent hypertension (high blood pressure)

If you consume a American diet that is high in refined, fabricated foods can cause a chromium deficiency. Studies also show that women with PCOS lose more chromium than healthy women due to elevated insulin levels. Chromium deficiency results in insulin resistance, so its a vicious circle.

In a recent study, the women taking chromium ate less food, reduced their hunger levels and fat cravings, and tended to decrease body weight.

Supplementation can be quite beneficial for cysters. Brewer’s yeast is the richest source of chromium however it can also be found in liver, mushrooms, wheat germ, oyster, some cheeses, whole wheat bread, beets, fresh fruit and chicken breasts.

A typical recommended dose of chromium is 200 mcg per day however, some studies suggest that one should take supplement with 400-1000 mcg per day. (ovarian-cysts-pcos.com)

There are various forms of chromium:

• Chromium polynicotinate – Looks to be the most beneficial to those with insulin resistance and/or Type 2 diabetes.
• Chromium picolinate – Is a common form of chromium, however it has been suggested that high doses could actually cause changes in your DNA!
• Chromium chloride – Is less effective those mentioned above.

Before starting chormium, familiarize yourself with the drug interactions:

• NSAIDs might increase chromium levels
• Antacids, H2 blockers, or PPI’s may decrease chromium levels

Its also important to note that chromium supplementation may stress your kidneys, so if you issues with your kidneys, avoid it at all costs.

For more information on chromium, its benefits and drug interactions, click here.