Higher doses might also lower the level of certain blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides) in some people.Įarly research suggests that chromium picolinate might have the same benefits in people with type 1 diabetes, people who have diabetes as a result of steroid treatment, and people with diabetes the develops during pregnancy. Higher chromium doses might be more effective and work more quickly. Also, chromium picolinate might decrease weight gain and fat accumulation in people with type 2 diabetes who are taking a class of antidiabetes medications called sulfonylureas. Some evidence shows that taking chromium picolinate (a chemical compound that contains chromium) by mouth, either alone or along with biotin, can lower fasting blood sugar, lower insulin levels, and help insulin work in people with type 2 diabetes. Taking chromium by mouth is effective for preventing chromium deficiency. Uses & Effectiveness Likely Effective for. SLIDESHOW Diabetes: What Raises and Lowers Your Blood Sugar Level? See Slideshow How does it work?Ĭhromium might help keep blood sugar levels normal by improving the way our bodies use insulin.

Chromium is also used to improve athletic performance, to increase energy, and to prevent age-related mental decline.Ĭhromium is used intravenously (by IV) as a supplement in nutritional IV drips. Some people try chromium for body conditioning including weight loss, increasing muscle, and decreasing body fat. It is also used for depression, Turner's syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), lowering 'bad' cholesterol, raising 'good' cholesterol in people taking heart medications called beta blockers, metabolic syndrome, heart attack, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and binge eating disorder. The second is a known toxin that can cause skin problems and lung cancer.Ĭhromium is used for improving blood sugar control in people with prediabetes, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and high blood sugar due to taking steroids and HIV treatments. The first is found in foods and supplements and is safe for humans. There are two forms of chromium: trivalent chromium and hexavalent chromium. It is called an 'essential trace element' because very small amounts of chromium are necessary for human health.