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Chromium

Chromium

Prednisone is a medication that can be very helpful in treating various health conditions, but it may also have some side effects. Nutranize Zone is a special product designed to assist people in counteracting those side effects. One of its star ingredients is chromium picolinate. Let’s explore how chromium picolinate works and how it could benefit someone taking prednisone.

What is Chromium Picolinate?

Written by: Dr. Megan Milne, Rabaa Al-Rousan, Kelsey Tesher Yacine & Noel

Chromium picolinate is a mineral supplement that contains a combination of chromium and picolinic acid. Chromium is an essential mineral that our bodies need in small amounts to function properly. Our bodies cannot produce chromium on their own, so we must get it from the food we eat or through supplements like Nutranize Zone.

Types of Chromium

Chromium exists in two main forms: trivalent chromium (III) and hexavalent chromium (VI). Don’t get them mixed up, because hexavalent chromium is found with industrial pollution and is toxic when inhaled. Trivalent chromium is the type found in food and supplements such as Nutranize Zone and is not toxic. Dietary supplements containing chromium could be found as chromium chloride or chromium picolinate, but the picolinate form has much more research supporting its use. Nutranize Zone contains the highest quality form, chromium picolinate, as Chromax™.

How Does Chromium Work?

Chromium plays a crucial role in many aspects of our health. It helps our bodies use insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Chromium also supports the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are all important for our overall health.

How Does Prednisone Affect Chromium?

Taking Prednisone to reduce inflammation may lower chromium levels in the body, called chromium depletion. Low chromium can lead to confusion, poor coordination, increased urination, and increased blood sugar, which can increase the risk of diabetes. Chromium depletion can also cause weight gain, increased cholesterol levels, and muscle loss.

Other Medications that can Deplete Chromium:

Antacids, particularly those containing calcium carbonate (including Tums and Mylanta), may reduce the amount of chromium your body absorbs. Proton pump inhibitors used for acid reflux such as esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and omeprazole (Prilosec) can also reduce chromium absorption. Plus other corticosteroids like prednisone, such as dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, and methylprednisolone can also deplete chromium.

How much is too much?

Chromium supplement has been used safely in doses of 200-1000 mcg daily. Chromium supplements should not be used by people with kidney or liver disorders or by people with iron deficiency.

Prednisone Side Effects Related to Low Chromium

How Can Chromium Picolinate Help Someone on Prednisone?

Prednisone can have certain side effects that may affect our bodies. Chromium picolinate can potentially help mitigate these effects and support overall health. Here’s how:

chromium
1. Regulating Blood Sugar Levels

Prednisone can sometimes cause elevated blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes. Chromium picolinate has been studied for its potential to help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Including chromium picolinate in your diet may help support healthy blood sugar levels. Long-term treatment showed better results in all aspects of blood sugar control.

2. Supporting Metabolism

Prednisone can affect our body’s metabolism, leading to weight gain or changes in appetite. Chromium picolinate is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Consuming enough chromium picolinate may help support a healthy metabolism and potentially prevent weight gain.

3. Promoting Overall Well-being

Prednisone can sometimes affect our mood and lead to mood swings or irritability. Chromium picolinate has been linked to brain health and may help support a balanced mood. Consuming enough chromium picolinate may help promote overall well-being and emotional stability.

How Can Nutranize Zone Help?

Nutranize Zone, containing chromium picolinate as one of its star ingredients, provides a convenient way to ensure you’re getting enough of this essential mineral. By taking Nutranize Zone while on prednisone, you can potentially support your blood sugar regulation, promote a healthy metabolism, and maintain a balanced mood.

chromium picolinate

How to Eat More Chromium?

Chromium is naturally present in a wide variety of foods, though only in small amounts. Shellfish in general are a great source of chromium. Broccoli, green beans, Grape juice, and orange juice are also excellent sources of chromium. Food that is high in sugar, on the other hand, is not a good source of chromium and can reduce the absorption of chromium in our body.

Conclusion:

Chromium picolinate is a miraculous mineral that can help counteract some of the side effects caused by prednisone. By consuming enough chromium picolinate through Nutranize Zone or chromium-rich foods, individuals on prednisone can potentially regulate their blood sugar levels, support a healthy metabolism, and promote overall well-being. Always remember to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or making significant changes to your diet.

References:
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  11. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/chromium-foods#Benefits-of-chromiumgoven.com/recipes/chromium/best
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For further reading:
  1. 75+ Scientific Articles and Nutranize Zone Ingredients
  2. 9+ Nutrients Depleted by Prednisone
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