Just like protein and calcium are essential for the body, chromium is also required by the human body in small quantities. Though there is no recommended daily dosage of chromium known, it is suggested that adult men and women should take 35mcg and 25mcg of chromium respectively. Pregnant women should consume 30mcg daily, and 45 mcg is recommended for breastfeeding women.

If you are having chromium deficiency or looking for the vegetarian foods rich in chromium, below is a list of foods that should be consumed to balance chromium level.

Broccoli is a great source of chromium. A half-cup of broccoli contains 1mcg of chromium, i.e., 3.4% of the DV. Consume it raw, boiled, in soups, or garnish on salads, any form of broccoli offers health benefits.

It is rich in fiber, folate, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K. It promotes healthy digestion and reduces constipation. Consume broccoli in your diet and prevent yourself from several diseases.

Barley is another great vegetarian source that has impressive health benefits to the body. Consuming barley helps in losing weight, lowering cholesterol level, and improving digestion. It is rich in chromium, vitamin B1, and copper. Barley reduces hunger and promotes feelings of fullness, which help in losing weight over time.

You can also consume barley water for better effects. Rinse the barley under cold water, and put it in a saucepan along with the lemon peel. Boil the mixture over medium heat. Strain the mixture and add honey into it. Pour into a bottle and refrigerate. Note that honey would enhance the flavor, so if you are a diabetic, add honey with a pinch of stevia.

Potatoes are another great vegetarian source rich in chromium. It not only improves heart health but also prevents cancer. A cup of mashed potatoes contains 3mcg of chromium or 8.6% of the DV. Mashed potatoes are highly recommended to those having kidney disease or end-stage renal disease.

Most people are not aware of the benefits that green beans offer to the body. It reduces the risk of heart disease, helps control diabetes, and boosts the immune system. It is a great vegetarian food that contains low-calorie and no cholesterol. Green beans have an impressive amount of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins and are extremely useful for the body.

Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin K, potassium, chromium, and Vitamin C. Increasing tomatoes in the diet helps in protecting cancer, reducing blood glucose level, and protecting the eyes against light-induced damage. The antioxidant properties of this vegetarian food can also be obtained from ketchup and purees.

Include the above vegetarian foods rich in chromium in your diet to prevent yourself from severe diseases. But before you start consuming these foods, make sure that you have consulted a doctor.

Also, remember that not everyone’s body has the same adopting habits. While some intake chromium supplements to lose their weight, others take foods rich in it to balance their chromium level.