Uses For Chromium Picolinate

Uses for Chromium Picolinate

Aug 15, 2010 | By Catherine Smith

Chromium picolinate is one of several forms of chromium available. Chromium is an essential mineral that the body must get from eating foods such as whole grains, black pepper and brewer's yeast. Though 90 percent of Americans do not get adequate amounts of chromium from their diet, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, only a very small percentage are actually considered deficient. Always speak to your physician before taking any supplement.

Insulin Production

Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas to take glucose in the bloodstream and turn it into energy for the body's cells. Chromium is believed to increase the rate in which insulin can metabolize this glucose. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies show that chromium supplements can reduce the need for insulin in patients suffering from diabetes. It also appears that those who consume a regular diet of highly processed sugary food could benefit from taking a daily chromium picolinate supplement.

Cholesterol Levels

Chromium is not only believed to help insulin metabolize glucose, but also increase blood cholesterol metabolism. According to the "Western Journal of Medicine," a study published in January 1990 showed that chromium picolinate reduced LDL cholesterol--the "bad" kind--and slightly increase HDL cholesterol--the "good" kind--levels in humans. This ability to reduce high LDL cholesterol was seen to be more effective in people who were already suffering from a high cholesterol level versus those who were not.

Weight Loss

Many articles and advertisements suggest taking chromium picolinate to facilitate weight loss. There have been some studies, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, that show it can reduce body fat, but the reduction is extremely minimal and probably not worth the effort and expense of taking this supplement.