Chromium picolinate

Chromium picolinate is a trace mineral that is usually found in food. This is found in many different food sources including brewers yeast, brown sugar, and coffee to name a few. The mineral has been studied for its ability to help regulate blood sugars, however much more study needs to be done. What they have found is that in certain individuals chromium may be able to, when ingested for a period of time enhance a person’s insulin utilization and increase the number of insulin receptors in the body. This can work to help increase a person’s natural ability to metabolize glucose and in turn lower blood glucose levels.

Since there have been some clinical studies done, the FDA does allow the makers of one type of chromium picolinate show that this mineral may help to reduce insulin resistance on their product label. Chromium is said to be responsible for breaking down fats in the body therefore it can reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body. It has been used as an herbal supplement for a number of years as a weight loss supplement and for people who are body building and want to increase their muscle mass. This has become a very popular supplement in the United States for weight loss. Claims have been made that make it sound like a miracle drug, however since it is an herbal supplement the FDA cannot vouch for all of the claims that some of the manufacturers make.

Several years ago there were studies that confirmed that chromium picolinate did indeed help to support faster weight loss while helping to build lean body mass. One such study was performed in 1998 which showed that when chromium combined with L-cartinine was given to a group of subjects. They also had an exercise regimen that was observed. This group lost a significant amount of more weight than the control group. This supplement works by increasing metabolism and promoting the burning of carbohydrates and fatty molecules. It works to process blood sugar and stimulates insulin to do its work. Therefore insulin is working at peak performance and can burn much more sugar and fat than it would normally. In addition to weight loss, chromium picolinate has been reported to increase energy levels, improve moods and build muscle mass while drastically reduce the appetite. It has been marketed as a safe and effective alternative to steroids, increasing strength while building muscle mass.

Chromium is not without its problems and side effects. There have been some reports of some very serious issues and possible side effects from people who were taking high doses of chromium picolinate over long periods of time. This has led to some warnings concerning long term use of the mineral. Due to this, the herbal supplement is not recommended in large doses or been proven to be safe for use for long periods of time. There have been two reports of young adults who developed kidney failure who were taking this supplement and were on high dosages. They were also taking other supplements as well as medications so it is unclear as to exactly what caused their kidney failure. However, it is best to err on the side of caution in these matters.

There are some concerns for people who take medications for diabetes who are considering taking this supplement. The concerns are that this supplement may work along with diabetes medication and lower blood glucose to levels that are lower than normal. Other medications such as aspirin and NSAIDs can increase the effects of chromium. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take this supplement either.