Chromium contributes to the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels. It does this by participating in glucose metabolism, enhancing the effects of insulin. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas when blood glucose increases after a meal.
It binds to insulin receptors on cell surfaces, activating them and stimulating glucose uptake by the cells for energy. It is believed that when the insulin receptor is activated chromium moves into the cell, binds to a peptide enhancing the insulin receptor activity.
Contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism by facilitating the action of insulin. It therefore promotes the breakdown of fat, carbohydrates and proteins.