What is a Chromium Deficiency?

Chromium deficiency is a condition that results from a person having too little of the mineral chromium in the body. Although humans require only trace amounts of the mineral, a deficiency can cause symptoms including fatigue, anxiety and muscle weakness or poor growth in children. It also affects the body's ability to digest food and regulate blood sugar levels, making chromium deficiency a suspected contributor to the development of diabetes. Chromium deficiency can be difficult to diagnose, because the mineral is stored in the liver, spleen and bones, so the levels of chromium in blood or urine samples might not be a good indicator of a person's chromium levels.

The amount of chromium a person should take in can vary. One of the best ways for a person to ensure an adequate intake of chromium might be to eat a diet that is low in refined sugar and high in chromium-rich foods. Supplements also are available that might help increase a person's chromium intake.

Chromium deficiency can cause a variety of symptoms. People who have a deficiency of the mineral might experience heightened anxiety in stressful situations. They also might feel tired much of the time, even when they get enough sleep. In children, especially those whose diets include a lot of white sugar or processed food, chromium deficiency can cause muscle weakness and poor growth rates.

People who don't get enough chromium might also have high levels of blood sugar and insulin resistance, which can sometimes be indicators of diabetes. They might experience some of the same symptoms as diabetics, such as frequent urination, extreme thirst and excessive hunger. A glucose tolerance test can measure a person's blood sugar levels and might indicate a chromium deficiency in some cases.

The recommended amount of chromium a person should get can vary widely depending on age, gender and other factors. In some cases, pregnant or breastfeeding women might require more chromium than other people. Most of the time and for most people, eating a healthy, well-balanced diet should provide adequate amounts of chromium, but supplements also are available. Before taking a chromium supplement, it might be necessary for one to consult with a doctor, because this mineral might interact with some medications. Foods that are rich in chromium include rye bread and some other whole grains, peas, potatoes and oysters.