Chapter 17, Problem 40R

To determine

To Apply: The information that chromium is poisonous but required in trace quantities, for safe use of vitamin and mineral pills.

Answer to Problem 40R

Since chromium and selenium are harmful to our body and they are present in vitamin and minerals pills, so never take an overdose of these types of pills.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Like selenium (Se), chromium (Cr) is poisonous but this substance is needed in trace amount in our diet and this is also used in vitamin and mineral pills because chromium is an essential mineral that is required for the proper growth of the body. Chromium is also required for the breakdown of insulin which mediates glucose metabolism. Chromium is also required for the proper functioning of the brain.

Cr and Se both are harmful to the body and the high concentrations of these disturb the metabolic activities. Medications must be taken by the prescription of doctors only because many medications contain these elements.

Conclusion: Since minerals and vitamin pills contain harmful elements like selenium and chromium, so it is advisable not to take overdose of them. It may cause harm to the body.