Chromium cancer scare
My sister tells me that chromium is the latest ‘cancer scare’ and I wondered what your advice is on this. I apologise if you have already written about this - I consult your website regularly but always get sidetracked by something else interesting! Also, could you please consider adding an index to your book? It would make it much easier to consult - and cut down on the aforementioned sidetracking!
The controversy over chromium is nothing new. In fact, claims and counterclaims ping pong back and forth between scientists and experts with such regularity, the best I can do is update you on the current “establishment position' which is that chromium is probably safe.
Even the UK’s Food Standards Association (FSA) has now backtracked on earlier advice against taking this supplement (in other words, changed its mind) so it is no wonder consumers are confused.
Chromium is widely incorporated in a range of supplements formulated for conditions as diverse as bodybuilding, weight loss and the management of Type II diabetes.
It is often provided in the form of chromium picolinate (which is said to be more easily absorbed by the body) and it is this combination which has given rise to concern, following test tube studies which suggested it could damage the genetic material of animal cells.
You have not specified the reason for your interest in chromium but since it occurs naturally in lots of foods, including wholegrains, cereals and seafood then making sure you eat a balanced diet that includes there should ensure you do not suffer any deficiency.
For anyone seeking a chromium supplement, VRP (Vitamin Research Products) make a chromium picolinate in a therapeutic dose of 200 mcg (micrograms) per capsule. Mail order from the Nutricentre (0800 587 2290) where 120 capsules cost £9.95.
Regarding books with an index, my most recent publication What Really Works In Natural Health (published in April 2004 by Bantam Press) does have an index which means it can be used as a reference book. This book, along with its predecessor, What Really Works for Kids - An Insider’s Guide to Natural Health for Mums and Dads (from the same publisher) is still available from www.amazon.co.uk.