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November 05 2000
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Chromium Lowers Cholesterol

 

The trace mineral chromium seems to have significant cholesterol-lowering abilities, according to new research.

Researchers combined data from 5 previous double-blind, placebo controlled studies involving more than 300 patients.

  • Total blood cholesterol levels fell more than 20 points on average, going from more than 220 mg/dl to less than 200 mg/dl, in subjects receiving chromium.

  • Study participants were not on any lipid lowering medications.

  • Supplementation with 1,000 mcg had the greatest effect, although doses as low as 200 mcg also significantly lowered blood cholesterol.

  • Benefits of supplementation were seen after 2 months.
The form of chromium used in the studies was chromium picolinate, which of is the only form of chromium to be used in studies looking at the effects on blood lipids.

Journal of the American College of Nutrition November, 2000; 19: 687



Dr. Mercola Dr. Mercola's Comments:
: An interesting observation and something that should be well noted. However, it is important to realize that the diet is the key to lowering cholesterol levels. Restriction of grains, sugars and dairy, and replacing all fluids with water are the keys. I have seen drops of more than 100 points in a few weeks in a large number of people who follow this approach.

I would NOT advise routine supplementation with extra chromium unless you had some external confirmation that you needed it. I generally find that hair analysis or DCA to be accurate indications of chromium need. Additionally, although the study was done with the picolinate form of chromium, it is likely that other forms work equally as well.

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