Chrome

Cr3+ is biologically active, Cr6+ is toxic.

Function
Trivalent form of chromium is used as a glucose tolerance factor. It stimulates the effect of insulin and increases glucose tolerance. It increases HDL levels in healthy people.

Conversely, professional exposure to hexavalent chromium has allergic effects and is carcinogenic.

Source
The source of chromium might be:
 * yeast (brewer's);
 * meat;
 * cheeses, wheat germ and nuts.

Recommended daily intake
Recommended daily intake of chrome is 150-200 μg.

Deficiency
Chromium deficiency can result in:
 * reduction of glucose tolerance up to type 2 diabetes mellitus;
 * hyperlipidemia;
 * acceleration of atherosclerotic changes.

Toxicity
Toxic is mainly hexavalent chrome - it easily passes through membranes and binds DNA → DNA-DNA crosslinks – contributing to mutagenesis. It enters the body in the form of emissions from the air and it damages the respiratory tract, conjunctiva, kidneys.

Related articles

 * Trace elements