Which Chromium is best for you??

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Chromium or Chromium HC1 your choice

Chromium - specifically trivalent chromium - is an essential trace element that is used by some people as a supplement. Perhaps most importantly, chromium forms a compound in the body that may, but has not been proven to, enhance the effects of insulin and lower glucose levels. However, it also has risks and its use is somewhat controversial.

Chromium uses

A 1997 study of 180 people with type 2 diabetes was published by the American Diabetes Association. It concluded that "supplemental chromium had significant beneficial effects on HbA1c, glucose, insulin, and cholesterol variables in subjects with type 2 diabetes."

The US National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says: "Chromium supplementation has been researched for its effect on glucose control in people with diabetes. Study results have been mixed. Some researchers have found benefits, but many of the studies have not been well designed. Additional, high-quality research is needed."

Meanwhile, Diabetes UK does not recommend taking chromium as a way of reversing Type 2 diabetes, saying regular physical activity, eating a healthy balanced diet and keeping an eye on weight are essential in treating Type 2 diabetes.

Other studies have also found that chromium may help with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is linked to insulin resistance.

In a pilot study published in the US journal "Fertility and Sterility," researchers at the State University of New York, analysed the effects of nutritional supplementation with chromium on six women with PCOS. Results showed that daily supplements of 1,000 mcg of chromium significantly enhanced insulin sensitivity. However, this was a small trial and larger controlled trials are needed to confirm efficacy.

Chromium supplements have also been studied for their effects on cholesterol, heart disease risk, psychological disorders, Parkinson’s disease and other conditions. However, the study results have been contradictory or unclear.
Some people use chromium supplements to build muscle or trigger weight loss. Again, results have been inconclusive and more research is needed.

Chromium dose and instructions for use

For labelling purposes, the European Union’s Recommended Daily Allowance (EU RDA) for chromium has been set at 40mcg per day for adults.
Many people get more chromium than that. However, no one knows exactly how much more is safe. The UK Expert Group on Vitamins and Minerals report on safe upper limits suggests that intakes of chromium of up to 10mg (10,000mcg) per person per day would be expected to be without adverse health effects. Excessive doses of chromium may actually worsen insulin sensitivity.

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