Chromium Picolinate
- Effective dose
- 200–1000 mcg
- Evidence
- 2/5· Emerging
Last updated June 1, 2026
What it is
Chromium picolinate is a well-absorbed form of the trace mineral chromium, marketed for blood-sugar control and weight management. Chromium is thought to enhance the action of insulin, which is the basis for its glucose-related claims. It is one of the most common forms of chromium in supplements.
Benefits
At about 200-1,000 mcg/day, chromium picolinate has produced small reductions in fasting glucose and HbA1c in some diabetes trials and modest weight loss (under 1 kg) in pooled analyses. These effects are small, inconsistent, and of debatable clinical significance.
When to take it
Typically taken once daily with a meal to support absorption and reduce stomach upset. Glucose-related effects, if any, emerge over weeks of consistent use.
Side effects
Generally well tolerated at supplemental doses; isolated reports describe headache, sleep disturbance, and, rarely, kidney or liver effects at high intakes. Can increase the risk of low blood sugar when combined with insulin or antidiabetes drugs, and may reduce absorption of levothyroxine (separate dosing by several hours).
Sources
Products containing Chromium Picolinate
No products in our database contain this ingredient yet.