Chromium is an essential mineral your body needs to help regulate your blood sugar and metabolize proteins, carbohydrates and fats that you consume as part of your daily diet. Health professionals with the Office of Dietary Supplements recommend that adults consume at least 20 to 45 mcg of chromium each day, depending on your age, by eating food rich in this mineral, such as broccoli and grape juice. If you are unable to consume adequate levels of chromium from your diet, your doctor may recommend that you take a chromium polynicotinate supplement. Talk with your health care provider about the side effects of chromium polynicotinate before beginning treatment with this supplement.
Upset Stomach
Chromium polynicotinate supplements may irritate your digestive tract, leading to upset stomach side effects. You may feel nauseated or lose your appetite. If stomach upset persists or become severe, seek additional care from your medical provider.
Skin Irritation
You may experience skin irritation as a side effect of taking chromium polynicotinate supplements. Red, inflamed patches of skin may develop across your body. You may develop sensations of itching in the affected skin region, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. Flushing may also occur and may cause the skin across your chest or face to appear unusually red or warm to the touch. Talk with your doctor if these side effects increase in severity or do not subside. Skin irritation may be caused by unusually high levels of chromium in your blood.
Headache
Treatment with this supplement may cause headache. Head pain may be disruptive and may interfere with your ability to concentrate, focus or remain attentive while at work or school. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication may help alleviate headache discomfort if this side effect does not resolve on its own.
Mood or Mental Changes
You may experience unusual mood or mental changes during prolonged treatment with chromium polynicotinate supplements, MedlinePlus reports. Difficulty thinking, poor coordination or impaired judgment may have a significant impact on your ability to complete daily tasks. If these side effects occur suddenly or increase in severity, seek prompt care from your physician to ensure you receive appropriate treatment and care.
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