From the Guidelines
Chromium amylopectin complex supplementation has limited evidence to support its effectiveness in improving glycemic control and insulin sensitivity.
Key Findings
- The evidence suggests that chromium supplementation may have a modest beneficial effect on glycemia and dyslipidemia in patients with type 2 diabetes, but the results are inconsistent and heterogeneous 1.
- Some studies have reported beneficial effects on glycemia from chromium supplementation, but these findings are not conclusive and may be influenced by baseline chromium status 1.
- Chromium supplementation has not been shown to have a significant benefit on weight management or body composition 1.
Dosage and Administration
- Typical dosages of chromium amylopectin complex supplementation range from 200-1000 mcg per day, administered for 8-24 weeks.
- A common regimen involves taking 500-800 mcg per day, divided into 2-3 doses, to support optimal glucose regulation and metabolic function.
Important Considerations
- Chromium deficiency has been reported in certain populations, such as those with chronic intestinal failure or undergoing long-term parenteral nutrition, and may be associated with glucose intolerance and insulin resistance 1.
- Toxicity from chromium supplementation is rare, but may be a concern in pediatric patients or those with renal disease 1.
From the Research
Effects of Chromium Supplementation
The effects of chromium supplementation have been studied in various contexts, including its impact on insulin sensitivity, serum lipids, and body composition.
- Chromium picolinate supplementation has been reported to improve glucose metabolism and serum lipid parameters in some studies 2, 3.
- However, other studies have found no significant change in serum lipids, insulin sensitivity, or body composition with chromium picolinate supplementation 4, 5.
- Chromium supplementation has been shown to increase weight gain and improve insulin sensitivity in Goto-Kakizaki diabetic rats 2.
- In healthy female rats, high dietary doses of chromium(III) complex with propionic acid did not affect overall nutritional indices and most blood biochemical, morphological, and haematological indices 5.
Mechanisms of Action
The mechanisms of action of chromium supplementation are not fully understood, but it is thought to involve potentiation of insulin signaling 6.
- Chromium may reduce myocellular lipids and enhance insulin sensitivity in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus who respond clinically to supplementation 3.
- Modulation of lipid metabolism by chromium in peripheral tissues may represent a novel mechanism of action 3.
Toxicity and Safety
The toxicity and safety of chromium supplementation have been raised as concerns, with some studies suggesting that chromium picolinate may generate oxidative damage of DNA and lipids and be mutagenic 6.
- However, the significance of these results on humans taking the supplement for prolonged periods of time is unknown and requires further study 6.