Chromium Supplements And Other Medications
Chromium Supplements And Other Medications
If you’ve considered taking a chromium supplement you might be concerned about the health risks that could occur. The good news is that there are very few serious side effects that are associated with chromium supplements. Perhaps one of the most important times that you need to pay attention is when you take other medications at the same time that you’re taking a chromium supplement. There are some medications that can negatively interact with chromium especially when the chromium supplement is taken every day. Before you begin taking a supplement make sure that you talk with your doctor or pharmacist to find out what can happen when you mix your medication with chromium.
The following medications can change the acidity of your stomach and can also impair the amount of chromium that your body absorbs as well as increase the amount of chromium that your body excretes: antacids, corticosteroids, proton-pump inhibitors (such as lansoprazole, omeprazole, and pantoprazole), H2 blockers (such as nizatidine, famotidine, and cimetidine). The following medications may have enhanced effects if they are taken in combination with a chromium supplement. As well, these medications can increase the amount of chromium that is absorbed: insulin, corticosteroids, nicotinic acid, beta-blockers, prostaglandin inhibitors (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin), and NAIDS (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs).
Many people for a variety of reasons take chromium supplements. In fact, chromium supplements represent about 5.6% of all mineral supplements that are sold over the counter. Chromium is sold on its own as a supplement or in combination with other supplements such as those sold to promote weight loss. Typical doses of chromium supplements are anywhere from 50 mcg to 200 mcg per day. The safety of chromium supplements is still in question. Your doctor can guide you in making the right decision when it comes to choosing the right supplement for your own medical situation.
You’ll be able to find chromium supplements in a variety of forms such as chromium nicotinate, chromium picolinate, chromium citrate, high-chromium yeast, and chromium chloride. What you eat can also play a big part in how much chromium you get every day. Foods high in chromium include whole grains, meats, seafood, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products. If you’re unable to meet the daily dietary requirements for chromium it’s recommended that you choose a chromium supplement. Your goal should be to eat enough chromium in your diet without exceeding the amount of calories that you need to consume in one day to maintain a healthy weight.