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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.
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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.
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Study participants were not on any lipid lowering medications.
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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
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