Scientists are currently investigating the link between chromium picolinate and diabetes. Chromium is an essential mineral in the functioning of the human body. Chromium (III) or chromium picolinate is the form found in food and which, is used by the body. Active in glucose metabolism, chromium picolinate enhances the effects of insulin. Scientist do not know the precise structure of biological chromium although research suggest a low-molecular-weight chromium-binding substance (LMWCr) enhances insulin receptor response while other studies have shown chromium to enhance insulin by increasing the translocation of glucose transporters to the cell membrane (http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/minerals/chromium/). Due to these interactions, it is hypothesized that chromium deficiency contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes and has heightened consequences for both pre diabetics and diabetics alike.
Chromium Picolinate Diabetes Dosage
The mysterious relationship between chromium picolinate and diabetes has led to several studies of chromium supplementation for diabetics. Individuals with diabetes have been found to shed higher levels of chromium and a Chinese study of 181 diabetics measured reduced blood glucose of 15-19% in a group that took a 1,000 mcg/day chromium picolinate supplement. In separate US studies, 13 of 15 clinical studies found that the use of chromium picolinate for diabetes resulted in some form of glycemic control. Controlled studies have shown that persons with impaired glucose tolerance, or pre diabetes, responded positively to chromium supplementation. During the studies the dosage given was about 200 mcg/day for two to three months. Interestingly, chromium supplementation was not found to have an effect on blood glucose or insulin in individuals who were not pre diabetic or diabetic.
Due to the lack of information on chromium requirements, the Food and Nutrition Board has outlined adequate intake levels (AI) based on the amount found in a balanced diet. For men between the ages of 19-50 the AI is 35 mcg/day, 25 mcg/day for women. In the 51 and up age group males require 30 mcg/day and women 20 mcg/day.
Chromium Picolinate Diabetes: Dosage and Conflict
Several studies have also confirmed that chromium picolinate is the best form of chromium supplementation as it is more readily absorbed by the body. In the treatment of diabetes, chromium picolinate levels need to be higher than those of the healthy population. Improved blood glucose levels, insulin, cholesterol, and hemoglobin A1C are dependent on the dosage of chromium picolinate with the ideal range being 200 to 1,000 mcg/day. Regardless, conflict remains in the scientific community, as the parameters of the various studies have been wildly different, making consensus difficult. Currently, the American Diabetes Association does not include chromium supplementation as part of its treatment recommendations.
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