Chromium: Chromium is an essential mineral found in very low concentrations in the human body. In 1957, researchers discovered that a compound extracted from pork kidney called "glucose tolerance factor (GTF)" helped diabetic rats use insulin more efficiently. People with diabetes either do not produce enough insulin—a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life—or cannot properly use the insulin that their bodies produce. As a result, glucose or sugar builds up in the bloodstream. Chromium was later identified as the active component of GTF. Today, it is believed that chromium helps insulin bring glucose from the blood into the cells for energy.

As many as 90% of American diets are low in chromium, but few people are deficient in this important mineral. The elderly, people who indulge in strenuous exercise, those who consume excessive amounts of sugary foods, and pregnant women are most likely to be deficient in chromium. Low chromium levels can increase blood sugar, triglycerides (a type of fat) and cholesterol levels and increase the risk for a number of conditions, including diabetes and heart disease.

Dietary sources of chromium include brewer's yeast, lean meats (especially processed meats), organ meats, mushroom, oatmeal, prunes, nuts, asparagus, whole grains, cereals cheeses, pork kidney, whole-grain breads, molasses, spices, and some bran cereals.