Minerals >> Chromium & Health

Health Claims

Increases muscle mass: Claims that chromium supplementation increases lean body mass and decreases body fat are based on the relationship between chromium and insulin action (see Chromium Functions). In addition to affecting glucose metabolism, insulin is known to affect fat and protein metabolism. At least 12 placebo-controlled studies have compared the effect of chromium supplementation (200-1,000 mcg as chromium picolinate/day) with or without an exercise program on lean body mass and measures of body fat. In general, those studies that have used the most sensitive and accurate methods of measuring body fat and lean mass (dual energy x-ray absorbtiometry or DEXA and hydrodensitometry or underwater weighing) do not indicate a beneficial effect of chromium supplementation on body composition.

Promotes weight loss: Controlled studies of chromium supplementation (200-400 mcg as chromium picolinate/day) have demonstrated little if any beneficial effect on weight or fat loss, and claims of weight loss in humans appear to be exaggerated. In 1997 the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) ruled that there is no basis for claims that chromium picolinate promotes weight loss and fat loss in humans.

See Also:

• Chromium Deficiency:
  Abnormal glucose utilization, increased insulin requirement

• Chromium & Diseases:
  Type 2 Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases

• Chromium:
  Type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes, Gestational diabetes

• Chromium Functions:
  Nutrient interactions, Carbohydrates & Vitamins

• Chromium & Health:
  Increases Muscle Mass, Weight Loss

• Chromium Safety, Drug & Nutrient Interactions

• Chromium Sources:
  Food sources & Supplements