With all the hoopla about to burst on the scene concerning two new diet "wonder"drugs, I am bracing myself for a new round of side effects that may also ensue.
There's no debate, we are getting fatter by the year, and so there is a desperate need for something besides willpower to flatten our flub. Of course, all of us know portion control and exercise is the way to go, but there is a naturally occurring mineral, that's almost a miracle when it comes to weight loss.
Chromium, found in dairy, whole grains, mushrooms and potatoes, is just that small miracle. It's also found in organ meats, like liver and kidneys, but many of us just don't eat them. In addition, the processing most of our food goes through before it gets to the table, removes most of this much needed mineral. A USDA scientist, Gary Evans, discovered a way to bind chromium and picolinate, creating this little jewel of good health.
Picolinate is a derivative of niacin, and through chelation, makes the chromium fat soluble, which increases its availability to the cells. By adding picolinate, Evans safely enhanced the benefits of chromium.
How does it work? By working in the sympathetic nervous system, it increases our sensitivity to insulin, which helps to metabolize sugars. Since most diabetics in the U.S. have Type 11, or insulin resistant diabetes, chromium p. can help to reduce diabetic complications by lowering blood glucose levels. It also increases fat loss, and although you might think that by increasing insulin sensitivity it might cause weight gain, the opposite is true.
Chromium p. effects the satiety center in the hypothalamus, turning off appetite. Without that little switch, we would eat until we burst!
It creates more efficient thermogenesis, the burn-off of excess carbohydrates, which as we all know, are stored as fat. As if this isn't enough action for a little mineral, chromium p. builds muscle when you work out. It helps to defeat other disorders associated with diabetes, like Reaven's Syndrome.
Studies back in the 1990's revealed that it reduced high blood pressure, high triglycerides and raised low HDL, the good cholesterol needed for healthy capillaries and blood flow, all effects of Reaven's.
The best part of all this is you can get chromium p.'s benefits in only 200 micrograms (mcg's) and you can safely take up to 400 mcgs daily. Since most supplements contain some chromium p., so check the labels and adjust your supplementation accordingly.
So if you are struggling with your weight, have diabetes, or suffer from lack of energy, try chromium picolinate before you plunge into that prescription drug.
Mother Nature, with a bit of help from responsible scientists, just might have a natural and non-toxic way to help you make things right!
Dr. Kleine regrets she cannot give advice by phone or e-mail. To make an appointment, call 631.472.8139, or e-mail us at Drfootsi@myway.com
