Although only a small amount of a mineral may be necessary for good health, it may play a large role in our physical well-being. This is true of chromium, a trace mineral involved in proper insulin function and glucose utilization. Improper insulin function can result in problems with weight management, cholesterol control, blood sugar levels and carbohydrate metabolism.
Chromium picolinate, sold under the Chromax® brand, already has been marketed as a dietary nutritional supplement in capsules and tablets. Now Nutrition 21 Inc., Purchase, N.Y., has under gone a self-affirmed GRAS process, allowing the mineral to be used as an ingredient in foods such as beverages and nutrition bars.