Effect of chromium on glucose utilization in marasmic protein-calorie malnutrition

Abstract

The effect of chromium on glucose utilization was investigated in cases of PCM of the marasmic type. In 9 out of 14 cases, the glucose removal rate increased significantly following the administration of chromium and this effect of a single dose of chromium continued during the period of observation lasting from 8 to 40 days. The results of this study clearly show that 1) chromium is one of the factors involved in the metabolism of glucose, and 2) chromium deficiency is encountered in a number of the marasmic infants in this area.