Question

Case Study #3

A client presents with elevated blood glucose. When you ask about her diet, the client states she eats a lot of refined, processed foods.

7 0.25 points

What mineral is likely lacking in her diet?

Chromium

Iron

Selenium

Iodine

8 0.5 points

What is the role of this mineral to blood glucose management?

It controls blood pressure.

It enhances insulin action.

It stimulates the thyroid gland.

It stimulates release of pancreatic enzymes.

Answer 1

7. Chromium

People with diabetes may also be deficient in zinc,9 a mineral with multiple roles in insulin homeostasis. Chromium is also undersupplied by the modern diet and supplements of the trace element can improve glycaemic control in diabetes. Some medications used to treat diabetes can increase nutrient requirements.

8. B

The balance between kinase and phosphatase activity may facilitate the role of insulin in rapidly moving glucose into cells. In addition, it has been suggested (7) that chromium enhances insulin binding, insulin receptor number, insulin internalization, and β-cell sensitivity.