Chromium is a mineral required by the human body in relatively small quantities. However, although you don't need much of it, its impacts on health are significant. The mineral is found in every corner of the food pyramid, but levels are often miniscule and can be affected by cooking and handling methods. Foods found to be highest in chromium are things like, Broccoli, Barley, oats and other whole grains, Green beans, Tomatoes, Romaine lettuce, Black pepper, Apples, Lean meat, Cheese.

The most well-studied benefit of chromium is its effects on insulin and blood glucose. As many as 90 percent of people are believed to have low chromium, which may be attributable to the high incidence of type 2 diabetes. Research has found that it might reduce blood glucose levels in diabetics. Chromium may also help protect your cardiac health. It has been shown to reduce triglycerides, blood pressure and cholesterol, all of which are associated with heart disease at high levels.

It's useful for fitness purposes, too. If you're looking to boost your muscle mass, chromium may be able to help. Some studies have sound that it's important for lean muscle development and enhancing strength.