Chromium

The transition metal chromium occurs as a very hard substance (although not as hard as diamond) with a lustrous and silvery appearance. The name is derived from the Greek word for colour (Chroma) due to the fact that many chromium compounds are intensely coloured.

It is essential to humans in very low (trace) amounts in our bodies, where its biological function is a little difficult to define, but its absence is related to insulin production and problems with metabolism of sugar and fats.

Atomic number 24

Atomic mass 52

Chromium is found mainly in Brewer’s yeast, oysters, broccoli, potatoes and liver.

1 cup of Broccoli contains 22 micrograms of chromium

Benefits:

1. Important for macronutrient metabolism.
2. Helps maintain blood sugar levels.

Did you know …

Chromium is considered an essential nutrient in humans for insulin, sugar and lipid metabolism in the USA but not in Europe.

In the body, the highest quantity of chromium is found in the placenta.

EFSA claims

1. Chromium contributes to the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels.
2. Chromium contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism.

Citrus bioflavonoids

Citrus plants contain a variety of phytochemicals including bioflavonoids. The bioflavonoids are typically found in citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, tangerines, limes etc. There are several kinds of citrus bioflavonoids, including hesperidin, naringin and rutin, which are known to reduce the oxidative stress associated with free radical damage to cells. In combination with the vitamin C found in citrus plants, there are many reports on the health benefits of these bioflavonoids.

Epidemiological studies have reported a link between dietary flavonoid intakes and cardiovascular diseases. The mode of action is believed to be due to the high amounts of vitamins and minerals, in addition to the antioxidant properties of their flavonoids. Citrus bioflavonoids boost our antioxidant defences against free radicals.

Benefits:

1. Antioxidants tackle a wide spectrum of health issues.
2. Citrus fruits also contain vitamin C to support the function of the flavonoids.
3. Benefits for skin, hair and nails.
4. Reported to improve cardiovascular health.

Did you know …

There are thousands of bioflavonoids known and they also occur in other foods such as chocolate and wine.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Coenzyme Q10, also called ubiquinol, is a fat-soluble substance that can be characterised as a vitamin-like antioxidant. It is found naturally in our cells and is necessary for energy production, via the electron transport chain and production of ATP (often referred to as the energy currency in the cell). As a fat-soluble ingredient it is best absorbed when taken in combination with fat-rich meals. Too little CoQ10 leads to problems with tiredness and fatigue.

This molecule can exist in a completely oxidised form or a completely reduced form, which enables it to function very efficiently as an antioxidant. CoQ10 is also available over the counter as a dietary supplement and its role has been recognized for conditions such as cardiovascular, neurodegenerative and metabolic conditions.

Being a lipophilic substance, the absorption of CoQ10 is enhanced in the presence of lipids and its supplementation is improved if it is ingested with a fatty meal.

CoQ10 status may vary according to pathophysiological conditions such as oxidative stress and ageing. CoQ10 positively influences the age-affected cellular metabolism and helps to counteract the signs of ageing at a cellular level. Benefits can be seen for skin, hair, nails and joints.

CoQ10 is found in meats, pork, fatty oily fish, spinach, various fruits and nuts.

1 Medium orange gives 0.3 mg CoQ10 or ½ cup spinach gives 0.5 mg CoQ10.

Benefits:

1. Helps the cell to generate mitochondrial energy.
2. Can increase antioxidant protection.
3. Reduces inflammation.
4. Supports growth and maintenance of tissues.

Did you know…

Coenzyme Q10 is a member of the ubiquinone family, so called because it is ubiquitous (found everywhere)?