Loading ...
Chromium is a metallic element that plays a critical role in helping the body use sugar efficiently, and also is needed for the breakdown of protein and fats. Its relationship with prostate health is through sugar: Men who have high blood sugar (diabetics) and who are overweight are at increased risk of suffering from BPH. This fact is illustrated in a study from the University of California San Diego which showed that men with diabetes are more than twice as likely to have prostate enlargement as compared to men without diabetes. (Parsons 2008) Prostate enlargement is also three times higher among men who have high blood sugar and 3.5 times higher among obese men. Chromium is a factor because supplementation is considered an important tool against diabetes and obesity. Many people are deficient in chromium, and in fact consumption of refined sugar depletes chromium levels in the body. Therefore, chromium is an important supplement to consider if you are overweight and/or have diabetes and/or have BPH.
No RDA has been established for chromium, but the generally suggested intake is 50 to 200 micrograms daily for adults. Supplements are available as tablets and capsules, and the recommended form is chromium picolinate, which is more easily absorbed and utilized by the body than are chromium chloride or nicotinate. The amount of chromium in foods is highly variable, but some of the best known sources are broccoli, whole grains, grape juice, and bran cereals.
Reference
Parsons JK, Bergstrom J, Barrett-Connor E. Lipids, lipoproteins, and the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia in community-dwelling men. BJU Int 2008 Feb; 101(3): 318-18.
