Chromium is a mineral involved in a number of functions in your body, from boosting protein synthesis to maintaining arterial health. Chromium picolinate, a form of chromium, can help with insulin resistance by increasing insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose levels. Chromium picolinate can be found in foods, such as egg yolks, broccoli, apples and beef, and is available in supplement form. Consult your physician before taking any supplements.
Insulin Resistance
Insulin is a hormone produced in your body to help maintain blood sugar levels. After eating, glucose levels increase, which signals the release of insulin. Insulin then picks up glucose and transports it to cells where it's used for energy. In a condition known as insulin resistance, the body's cells reject insulin effects, causing a buildup of glucose in the blood. Over time, this can lead to the development of diabetes, weight gain and high blood pressure, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Insulin Sensitivity
One way to reduce insulin resistance is to increase your insulin sensitivity, which makes cells more responsive to insulin and increases glucose uptake. Researchers at the University of Vermont discovered that type 2 diabetics consuming the diabetic medication sulfonylurea plus 1,000 micrograms of chromium picolinate daily for six months experienced increases in insulin sensitivity compared with those taking sulfonylurea alone. The findings were reported in the August 2006 issue of "Diabetes Care."
Glucose Levels
Reductions in glucose are an indicator that your cells are responding to insulin effects. Scientists at the Department of Technical Services and Scientific Affairs in New York reviewed the scientific literature regarding the effects of chromium picolinate on diabetes. They concluded that chromium picolinate supplementation is effective for lowering glucose levels, according to research published in the November 2006 issue of "Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics."
Interactions
Chromium picolinate supplementation may interact with certain medications, including antacids and diabetes medications, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Consult your health care provider before taking chromium picolinate.
References
- American Diabetes Association; Diabetes Basics
- "Diabetes Care"; Chromium Picolinate Supplementation Attenuates Body Weight Gain and Increases Insulin Sensitivity in Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes; J.Martin et al.; August 2006
- "Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics"; Clinical Studies on Chromium Picolinate Supplementation in Diabetes Mellitus---A Review; C.Leigh Broadhurst and Philip Domenico; November 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Chromium; 2011
