TRIVALENT CHROMIUM, IN ATHEROSCLEROSIS AND DIABETES

The known effects of trivalent chromium (Cr) in lowering blood levels of low density lipoproteins (LDL), raising high density lipoproteins ( HDL) and improving glucose tolerance are summarised. Chromium deficien cy cannot easily be established by direct means, but can be inferred b y the reversal of symptoms and signs following the administration of t rivalent chromium. This evidence can be supported by knowledge or susp icion of a deficiency in the diet, common in those who use highly refi ned cereal foods. It is considered that the beneficial effects of chro mium repletion are now so well established and the trivalent form is s o free of toxicity that it should now be used in clinical medicine for the benefit of those with some forms of diabetes and its complication s and those suffering from atherosclerosis. Of perhaps more importance is the public health aspect, since most chromium is discarded in the cereal refinement process, we now have added evidence for a return to the diets in which complex carbohydrates predominated. In those who re fuse or are unable to do this, possibly the addition of chromium to th eir drinking water may be of value.