Many women are aware of the importance of calcium; however, most are unaware of the health benefits associated with the other "C" - chromium. Just as calcium is important for strong bones, chromium is essential to help your body's insulin work better.

But what exactly is insulin health and if you don't have diabetes, why should you be concerned? Nutrition expert Pat Baird,moncler outlet, MA, RD, explains why:

If I don't have diabetes why worry about insulin health?

Many women don't realize that proper insulin function is essential to maintaining good cardiovascular health, and helps promote healthy blood sugar, which is important for those with a family history of diabetes or heart disease. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women. The American Diabetes Association estimates 9.7 million women 20 years or older have diabetes, although nearly one-third don't know it.

Insulin is known as the "master metabolic hormone." Normal insulin functions help the cells use glucose, our body's energy source. However,timberland cheap, in some cases the body is unable to use the insulin it produces. When this happens glucose levels rise above normal, which can lead to type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

How can chromium help improve insulin health?

Chromium is an essential mineral required to metabolize carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Without adequate levels of chromium in your body, insulin cannot effectively do its job. Numerous studies support the role of chromium picolinate -; the most studied and best-absorbed form of chromium -; in managing insulin health.

Supplementing with Chromax - the most clinically tested form of chromium picolinate - will help balance insulin levels, which in turn helps manage your risk for type 2 diabetes and promote cardiovascular heath,gucci bags outlet.

Do I need a supplement?

Getting the proper amounts of chromium in your diet today can help manage your risk for type 2 diabetes and heart disease tomorrow. Chromium is found in many foods at low levels, but it's often poorly absorbed. This is where a chromium picolinate supplement can factor into your diet,christian louboutin shoes. Research shows that Chromax may help improve blood sugar and overall insulin function, reduce carbohydrate cravings and fight weight gain. Research suggests 200-500 mcg of chromium picolinate daily will help achieve optimal health benefits.