Chromium

Chromium might improve glucose tolerance and be useful in some individuals with diabetes. It might also have some favorable effects on lipids. Claims that it boosts athletic performance, builds muscle, and promotes weight loss have little credible support. Evidence is mixed and inconclusive with respect to claims that Chromium picolinate might be mutagenic.

Nursing mothers and women who are pregnant should avoid doses of Chromium above the upper limit of the estimated safe and adequate daily dietary intake, which for Chromium is 50 to 200 micrograms daily. Individuals with a history of hypoglycemia should apply caution in the use of Chromium supplements. Individuals with a history of hyperglycemia or type 2 diabetes mellitus should only use Chromium supplements for the possible management of abnormal glucose tolerance under medical supervision. In general, Chromium supplements are well tolerated. There are a some reports of adverse reactions particularly with use of chromium picolinate. Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis was reported to be associated with the use of chromium picolinate. A case of interstitial nephritis was reported to occur 5 months after a subject received a 6-week course of 600 micrograms of Chromium in the form of chromium picolinate daily. Another report described anemia, hemolysis, liver dysfunction, renal failure, thrombocytopenia, and weight loss after the use of 1,200-2,400 micrograms of chromium picolinate daily for 4 to 5 months. One study reported that individuals on beta-blockers taking 600 micrograms daily of Chromium in the form of high-chromium yeast were found to have modestly elevated HDL-cholesterol levels after 2 months of Chromium use. Concurrent intake of ascorbate and Chromium might increase the absorption of Chromium. Concurrent intake of Chromium with foods rich in phytic acid might lower the absorption of Chromium. This website is intended to educate and inform, and should not replace discussions with your doctor.