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