Chromium is an essential trace mineral that works with insulin to support healthy blood glucose levels and plays an important role in the proper utilization of protein, fat and carbohydrates. Cinnamon has been used throughout history by herbalists to promote healthy digestion and metabolism.*
Tri-Chromium™ 500 mcg with Cinnamon Fact Sheet
By Neil E. Levin, CCN, DANLA
9/21/2004
The latest research was used to formulate this new chromium compound (NOW product #1428). NOW wanted to produce a higher strength companion product to a 200 mcg. chromium picolinate, then decided to enrich the formula with two other kinds of chromium compounds, and still had enough room in the capsule to utilize ‘True Cinnamon’ powder as a base.
Chromium is a mineral nutrient that increases insulin sensitivity, leading to increased numbers of insulin receptors and greater binding of insulin to cells. It can reverse steroid-induced diabetes, as steroids are known to greatly deplete chromium. Chromium helps insulin to metabolize fat, turn protein into muscle and convert sugar into energy. Chromium-activated insulin increases the amount of blood sugar available for energy production by almost twenty times!
Chromium Picolinate has been used in studies which show that this form of the mineral is useful to improve glucose, insulin and blood fat levels, with a dose-related effect. It is also related to improvements in complications related to coronary artery disease, to increase lean body tissue, and to improve symptoms of certain forms of depression by up to 60%, according to a study done at Duke University. This form of chromium has been featured in many studies, some supported by the USDA.
Chromium Chelavite and ChromeMate are patented compounds known as chelates, which are predigested and easily absorbed. These particular chelates have chromium bonded to a niacin complex. Niacin-bound chromium complexes significantly increase the bioavailability and biological activity of chromium. Some studies have shown that niacin-complexed chromium is absorbed and retained 300% greater than chromium picolinate, lowering serum cholesterol and improving HDL (good) cholesterol levels, lowering blood pressure, reducing body weight, increasing lean body mass and promoting proper insulin function in the body.
True Cinnamon is one form of the common spice (Cinnaminum verum bark). Experiments conducted by the USDA have shown that it can lower blood sugar by mimicking insulin, activating insulin receptors and working with insulin in the cells to reduce blood sugar by up to 20%. Cinnamon has some antioxidant benefits, whereas insulin is oxygen-reactive.
CAUTION:
This is a much stronger formula than 200 mcg. of chromium. It may have effects on blood sugar levels, so should not be used by those using medications to control their blood sugar except under a doctor’s supervision.
DOSE:
No more than 2 per day are recommended. The effects may increase over some weeks of use.
SYNERGISTS:
Fiber and whole foods (in their whole form!) will be helpful to controlling blood sugar. Processed foods are the worst! Omega-3 fats from fish and flaxseed oil are anti-inflammatory, plus they help improve cell membrane health to aid insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
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