Chromium is an essential trace element vital for the normal metabolism of protein, carbohydrate and fat. Chromium levels decrease with age and marginal deficiency seems to be common. Chromium is important for energy production and plays a role in regulating appetite, reducing carbohydrate cravings and increasing lean body mass. It helps insulin to metabolise fat and convert protein into muscle and sugar into energy.

¤ Chromemate® is a unique, patented niacin-bound chromium complex which mimics the biologically active form of chromium: ‘Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF). It is also by far the most bio-available form of chromium – six times more bio-available than chloride and three times more than picolinate. A number of studies have demonstrated the superior bioavailability of Chromemate®, as well as its efficacy, safety and health benefits.

¤ Supplementation with Chromemate® reduces body fat mass and increases muscle mass in obese individuals. In 1997, research showed that a combination of Chromemate® and exercise resulted in significant weight loss in obese women (University of Texas, Austin). In a study in 1999 on obese African-American women, two months’ supplementation with 600 mcg a day of Chromemate® was shown to decrease body fat mass while preserving lean body mass (Georgetown Medical Center). Chromemate® also helps to maintain normal cholesterol levels and promotes good cardiovascular health: Chromemate® was granted a patent on the basis of a study conducted at the University of Auburn which showed that it lowered LDL cholesterol in humans by 14%. A combination of Chromemate® and grapeseed extract reduced total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol by 16.5% and 20% respectively (Georgetown University, 2002).

¤ A number of other studies have shown that Chromemate®, either on its own, or in combination with soluble fibre, helps reduce blood pressure in hypertensives.

¤ Chromemate® normalizes insulin function and helps regulate blood sugar levels: chromium is the key nutrient in blood sugar control. It has been demonstrated that chromium supplementation helps reduce blood glucose levels and the need for exogenous insulin in insulin-dependent diabetics. These effects have also been shown for varying degrees of glucose intolerance, from marginal intolerance through to type II diabetes. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) estimates that millions of diabetics could control their symptoms by taking a chromium supplement. Chromium is the no. 1 supplement for the 20% of the population affected by ‘syndrome X’ insulin-resistance, characterized by overweight, hypertension and abnormalities in blood sugar and lipids. Chromemate® reduces radical damage caused by excess blood sugar and has general antioxidant properties. In 2002, researchers at the University of Dayton showed that Chromemate® improved the performance of elite cyclists.