Chromium

Efficacy-safety rating:

●...Little or no evidence of efficacy.

Safety rating:

What is Chromium?

Chrome ore, which is abundant in the earth's crust, is one of the primary commercial sources of chromium. Chromium is a steel-gray lustrous metal. Commercially, it is obtained from chrome ore among other sources. Chromium is important as an additive in the manufacture of steel alloys (chrome-steel, chrome-nickel-steel, stainless steel) and greatly increases the durability and resistance of these metals.

The organic form of chromium exists in a dinicotino-glutathionine complex in natural foods, and appears to be absorbed better than the inorganic form. Good dietary sources of chromium include brewer's yeast, liver, potatoes with skin, beef, fresh vegetables, and cheese.

What is Chromium used for?

Chromium is a trace element that is required for normal metabolic function. Although dietary requirements generally may be met by a balanced diet, supplements are available. Deficiencies, though rare, may contribute to adult diabetes and atherosclerosis, and may complicate aging and pregnancy.

Trivalent chromium plays a role in a cofactor complex for insulin, and is involved in normal glucose utilization. The biologically active form of chromium has been isolated from brewer's yeast and kidney powder, and is termed GTF. GTF appears to function as a carrier of chromium to the chromium-utilizing proteins of the cell. Chromium forms part of the glucose tolerance factor (GTF), which may facilitate binding of insulin to insulin receptors, thereby amplifying its effects on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.

A number of studies have reported the beneficial effects of supplemental chromium on glycemic control. However, other studies have shown either no benefits or ambiguous results with chromium supplementation.

Chromium deficiency is rare in the general population but may play a role in the development of adult diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis. Persons who have a high intake of highly refined foods may be at risk for developing chromium deficiency.

Because chromium is a recognized element required for the normal glucose metabolism, a number of over-the-counter products promote the use of chromium, alone or in combination with GTF, to improve carbohydrate utilization. The effectiveness of these products has not been established although they represent nutritionally sound sources of chromium.

Studies show that chromium picolinate supplementation has no effect on body mass composition (weight loss and muscle development). It has been suggested that chromium supplementation in postmenopausal women may have a benefit of osteoporosis prevention. More clinical studies are needed to determine the exact effects. There are case reports of patients showing clinical responses to chromium monotherapy for chronic refractory mood disorders (bipolar II disorder, dysthymic disorder, and major and minor depression). Regarding cholesterol control, chromium therapy has no predictable effect on lipid profiles.

What is the dosage of Chromium?

Chromium picolinate 0.5 to 1 mg or chromium 0.4 to 1 mg daily. The recommended daily allowance for chromium in healthy adults is 50 to 200 mcg.

Is Chromium safe?

Contraindications have not yet been identified.

Information regarding safety and efficacy in pregnancy and lactation is lacking.

None well documented.

Ingestion or exposure to certain forms of chromium may cause or contribute to GI irritation and ulcers, cancer, dermatitis, circulatory shock, and hepatitis.

Trivalent chromium compounds (found in food) show little or no toxicity.

References

Copyright © 2006 Wolters Kluwer Health

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