Australian researchers have shown that part of the chromium contained in food supplements can turn into a carcinogenic element.
“Maintenance of blood sugar”, “appetite suppressant”, “slimming effect” … Manufacturers of food supplements rich in chromium do not hesitate to praise the merits of this trace element essential to the body. But according to a australian study published in Angewandte Chemie, long-term consumption of these products is far from safe.
More specifically, researchers at the University of Sydney have discovered that part of the so-called trivalent chromium III contained in the capsules is transformed into a toxic form, chromium VI. This metallic element is recognized as a certain carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Associated cancers are lung cancer, nasal cavity cancer, and sinus cancer.
However, numerous studies have shown that chromium III naturally contained in food or present in food supplements acts as an insulin cofactor and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
The order of May 9, 2006 relating to nutrients that can be used in the manufacture of food supplements authorizes the use of chromium III at a maximum daily dose of 25 micrograms (µg). To cover nutritional needs, the French health authorities recommend a daily intake of 40 µg.
Long-term concerns
To come to this disturbing conclusion, Australian scientists conducted laboratory experiments. They treated animal cells with non-toxic doses of chromium and then analyzed them by X-rays.
Thanks to this method of analysis, the researchers were able to observe the accumulation of this trace element in the cells but also to note the appearance of chromium VI. “We were able to show that a phenomenon of chromium III oxidation takes place in the cell. It is this process that results in the carcinogenic form, explains Dr. Lindsay Wu, head of the work, who specifies that this is the first time that this has been observed in a biological sample.
The researcher also emphasizes that cancers linked to exposure to chromium VI have a very long latency period. Symptoms can appear after 20 years. Their discovery raises questions about the use of supplements rich in chromium over the long term or in high doses.
However, scientists say more work will be needed to confirm their results. They also want to be reassuring and specify that this transformation process does not seem to apply for the chromium contained naturally in our food.
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