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Q: A coworker told me I should take a chromium supplement to help control my blood glucose. What do chromium supplements do? Should I take one?

A: Chromium supplements are recommended for some people with type 2 diabetes who are on oral medications and have poorly controlled blood glucose levels. Chromium should be used in conjunction with a healthful eating plan and prescribed medications for diabetes.

Chromium is an essential trace mineral the body needs for normal insulin function when metabolizing carbohydrates. The body does not make this mineral naturally, but you can get enough by eating:

• egg yolks
• bran cereals
• whole grains
• nuts

Consult your health-care provider before taking a chromium supplement or any other dietary supplement.

Jeannette Jordan, M.S., R.D., CDE, is the American Dietetic Association's national spokesperson for African-American nutrition issues and oversees nutrition education at the Medical University of South Carolina.