Chromium picolinate is an over-the-counter supplement with various uses. You might find the mineral as a solo supplement or in combination with others vitamins and minerals. If you desire to lose weight or have a condition such as diabetes or mild depression, you might be interested in its uses for these purposes. Talk to your doctor about its potential benefits.
Nutritional Supplement
Chromium is a mineral that exists in certain foods, such as whole grains, cheese, lean meats and certain spices. Although approximately 90 percent of Americans lack chromium in their diet, few people are deficient in chromium, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Individuals who are deficient are generally those who consume excessive amounts of sugar or who are elderly or pregnant. Chromium is also a widely-used supplement among bodybuilders, although little evidence exists to prove its strength-enhancing effects.
Blood Glucose Effects
The effects of chromium picolinate supplements on blood glucose levels are a subject of debate. A May 2011 study published in the "Journal of Trace Elements and Biology," that followed 40 individuals with newly onset type 2 diabetes showed fasting blood glucose levels significantly reduced in those who consumed a yeast and chromium supplement. However, another 2011 study performed at the Prevention Research Center, Yale University School of Medicine, revealed no changes among 59 participants at risk for type 2 diabetes who received chromium for a six-month period.
Weight Loss
Chromium picolinate is among the many diet supplements you'll find at your pharmacy. Because the product is shown to reduce carbohydrate cravings and boost energy, says HelpGuide.org, it might provide some benefit to dieters. As a mood-enhancer, chromium picolinate is recommended for mild forms of depression, particularly for people who overeat and sleep excessively as a result, according to HelpGuide.org.
Safety and Considerations
Because chromium picolinate is sold as an herbal supplement, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate the product. Safety and dosages may vary, so its important to talk to a doctor or herbalist about the right product to use. If you consume a high-fat, high-sugar diet, you may be hindering the effectiveness of chromium picolinate, says Drugs.com. Additionally, some types of antacids can interfere with your body's absorption of chromium picolinate. Allergic reactions may occur and cause facial swelling, hives or difficulty breathing. Seek medical help immediately if you experience these effects.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Chromium; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2009
- Drugs.com; Chromium-Picolinate; December 2010
- HelpGuide.org; Dealing With Depression; Melinda Smith, M.A., et al.; November 2010
- "Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology;" Beneficial Effect of Chromium Supplementation on Glucose; Sharma S, et al.; May 2011
- "Official Journal of the American College of Endocrinology and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists;" Chromium Effects on Glucose Tolerence and Insulin Sensitivity in Persons At Risk For Diabetes Mellitus; Ali A, et al; Jan-Feb 2011
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