What Is Chromium?
Chromium is one of the essential minerals needed by the human body. It mainly supports the function of the hormone insulin and positively affects the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Adequate chromium intake helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports energy production.
When chromium is deficient, it may lead to reversible insulin resistance, disrupted metabolism, and an increased risk of developing diabetes. Chromium deficiency is rare and typically observed in individuals on long-term artificial nutrition.
The Role of Chromium in Diabetes Treatment
Antidiabetic medications are primarily used to regulate blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance. Recent studies suggest that chromium may have a positive effect on blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
However, chromium supplements appear to have little to no impact on blood sugar levels in healthy individuals. Therefore, combining chromium with diabetes medications should always be done under medical supervision. To enhance chromium absorption, a diet rich in vitamin C, B vitamins, and niacin is recommended.
Chromium Supplement Price and Usage
The price of chromium supplements varies depending on the dosage, formulation, and manufacturer. These products are typically sold as dietary supplements in forms such as chromium picolinate and chromium nicotinate. Before purchasing, it’s important to check the product's quality and certification, and to use it under a doctor's guidance.
The recommended daily intake of chromium is 0.03–0.1 mg. Overdosing may pose health risks, so proper use is essential.
The biologically active form of chromium required by the human body is trivalent chromium. First discovered in brewer’s yeast, this mineral exists in foods in forms such as chromium picolinate, chromium nicotinate, and chromium chloride. Notable food sources include black pepper, beef, egg yolk, wheat, cheese, artichoke, and parsley. Fish, shellfish, dairy products, and fruits contain smaller amounts of chromium.