What Is Chromium Picolinate?
Chromium is a metallic mineral that is often used in multivitamins and other supplements. Chromium picolinate is a special form of chromium that is supposedly more easily absorbed into the body, although there is little evidence to support this claim. In addition to small amounts in multivitamins, chromium picolinate is claimed to be helpful for a variety of purposes, such as to:
- Lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes
- Increase blood sugar in people with hypoglycemia
- Aid in weight loss
- Help in athletic training (such as for body building)
- Treat polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Help with depression or other mood disorders.
Chromium is known as a "trace essential element." This means that it is necessary for humans, but only in small amounts. In general, a chromium deficiency that is severe enough to cause any symptoms is quite rare. Several years ago, it was discovered that people who were fed entirely through an IV sometimes developed
diabetes symptoms due to a chromium deficiency, because the IV feeding did not contain chromium. Giving these people chromium reversed the
symptoms of diabetes. However, this does not mean that chromium can cure or treat
diabetes, especially in people who do not have a deficiency.
It has been suggested that chromium may work by increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes less sensitive to the effects of insulin, which causes diabetes symptoms and problems. It is also thought that the mineral may work in the brain to help control appetite or to increase metabolism.
Chromium picolinate supposedly is better absorbed into the body, compared to other forms, although little evidence is available to support this claim. However, there is some evidence that it can produce free radicals, which can cause damage, once it enters into the cells.
Is Chromium Picolinate Effective?
There is actually some evidence that chromium picolinate may be effective for treating
type 2 diabetes, although some studies have shown no benefit. There is insufficient evidence to support the other health claims for this supplement, such as weight loss or athletic training.
Multivitamins usually contain a small dose of chromium, which is typically enough for most people. However, a safe and effective dose has not been established for helping with
diabetes, weight loss, or any other use, other than general dietary supplementation. A maximum chromium picolinate dose has not yet been established.
Chromium picolinate can cause side effects, such as:
Is Chromium Picolinate Safe?
In low doses, chromium picolinate appears to be safe in many situations. However, some people may be more likely to experience problems than others. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking it if you have:
- Diabetes
- Liver disease, such as liver failure, cirrhosis, or hepatitis
- Kidney disease, including kidney failure (renal failure)
- Any kind of mental illness
- A chromate or leather allergy
- Any other allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not known what exactly to expect from an overdose of chromium picolinate. An overdose may cause symptoms such as:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Bleeding in the digestive tract.
If you think you may have taken too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Chromium Picolinate Be Stored?
Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how best to store it. Keep this and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
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