Chromium

Other Name(s):

trivalent chromium, chromium picolinate

General Description:

Chromium is an essential trace metal involved in regulating blood sugar and enhancing insulin action to metabolize and store carbohydrates, fat  and protein. Therefore, adequate amounts are required in the diet for normal breakdown of carbohydrates.

Medically Valid Uses:

Although some studies have shown that chromium supplementation can improve blood sugar levels in chromium deficient animals, chromium deficiency is rare in humans. Studies of chromium supplementation to treat blood sugar and type 2 diabetes in humans are inconclusive but research is ongoing.

Recommended Intake:

Chromium is measured in micrograms (mcg). Listed below are the adequate intake (AI) levels for chromium set by the National Academy of Sciences. These represent the level that healthy people typically consume.

Body concentrations of chromium decline with age.

Note: Oral chromium is poorly absorbed. Many products are chelated (the chromium binds to another chemical that will help absorption).

Side Effects, Toxicity and Interactions:

Although there are few serious adverse effects of high dietary chromium intake, all people should consult a physician before using chromium supplementation.

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should consult a physician before taking any mineral supplements.

Chromium supplements could decrease medication requirements or decrease blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Diabetic patients who start chromium supplements should monitor their blood sugar closely.

Chromium supplements also can have interactions with other medications, causing increased or decreased chromium absorption or increased or decreased effects of the medication. Medications with chromium interactions include:
antacids, corticosteroids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, beta-blockers, insulin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), prostaglandin inhibitors.

Additional Information:

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References:

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10. Morris BW, Macneil S, Hardisty CA, Heller S, Burgin C, Gray TA. Chromium homeostasis in patients with type II (NIDDM) diabetes [In Process Citation]. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 1999;13(1-2):57-61.

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