Chromium Flashcards
What does the supplement claim to do/ how is it proposed to work?
Chromium is used in the human body to move glucose from the bloodstream into cells, which is later used as energy. It also converts proteins, carbohydrates, and fats into energy. Chromium may provide other benefits, too, although there have not been enough studies performed to conclude the additional benefits. For example, it may help people with Type 2 Diabetes control their blood sugar. Chromium also possibly aids in muscle growth, along with assisting the body in using carbohydrates and burning fat. It also reduces calcium loss
How can the supplement be consumed?
tablets, capsules, or multivitamins
What are the possible side effects of taking the supplement?
If someone consumes the advised amount of chromium per day in the foods they eat and/or a supplement, they will most likely experience no side effects. However, when a person consumes too much chromium in the form of a supplement, side effects may include hypoglycemia, stomach problems, liver, kidney, or nerve damage, or irregular heart rhythm
Is there evidence that the substance improves athletic performance?
There have been numerous studies performed on both male and female athletes to test whether chromium improves athletic performance and enhances body composition. After each study, researchers concluded that chromium supplementation does not, in fact, appear to enhance sports performance or body composition in individuals
Is the substance banned by the NCAA, the IOC, or your sport specific professional organization?
The supplement is not banned by the NCAA, nor the World Anti-Doping Agency
Would you use this product? Why or why not?
I, personally, would not use this product because the information I researched stated most individuals consume their recommended amount of chromium in their diet, and consuming an excess of chromium through supplementation can cause undesirable side effects.
What advice would you provide your athletes/patients/clients with regarding this supplement?
As I previously mentioned, many people meet their daily intake requirements without taking supplements, and extra chromium is harmful to the body. In addition, no research proves chromium enhances athlete performance or body composition, so I truly feel there is no point in taking chromium because it could easily end up doing more harm than good. Lastly, many of the benefits associated with chromium are not fully proven, so I believe it would be best to wait until more studies are conducted.
