Chromium Picolinate Review
What You Should Know
Chromium picolinate is a nutritional supplement typically used to treat or prevent a deficiency in chromium. Deficiency, however, is extremely rare in most individuals. Chromium picolinate is a chemical compound derived from picolinic acid and chromium. A trial study showed chromium picolinate to reduce cravings of carbohydrates and regulate the appetites of the individuals participating in the study. Chromium picolinate also had some anti-depressant effects on these individuals. Chromium picolinate is marketed as a weight loss supplement due to the fact that it is believed to help the body process fats and carbohydrates. There is limited medical information on chromium picolinate and you are advised to contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms: unexplained bruising, nosebleeds, skin rashes, blisters, decreased urination, excessive tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, lack of sleep, headache or dizziness. Chromium picolinate can be found online or at local nutrition stores. The average retail prices are as follows: for 200 mcg the cost is $4.70 for a bottle of 90 and $8.20 for a bottle of 180; for 400 mcg the cost is $7.19 for a bottle of 90; for 500 mcg the cost is $8.29 for a bottle of 90 and $15.49 for a bottle of 180; for 800 mcg the cost is $9.29 for a bottle of 60.
Ingredients
The 200 mcg 90 count bottle of chromium picolinate contains 200 mcg of chromium (as chromium picolinate), titanium dioxide (natural mineral whitener), soybean oil, gelatin and glycerin. The 200 mcg 180 count bottle of chromium picolinate contains 200 mcg of chromium (as chromium picolinate), dicalcium phosphate and cellulose. The 400 mcg 90 count bottle of chromium picolinate contains 400 mcg of chromium (as chromium picolinate), cellulose, red beet juice powder and dicalcium phosphate. The 500 mcg 90 and 180 count bottles of chromium picolinate contain 500 mcg of chromium (as chromium picolinate), cellulose, red beet juice powder and dicalcium phosphate. The 800 mcg 60 count bottle of chromium picolinate contains 800 mcg of chromium (as chromium picolinate), 15 mg of zinc (as zinc picolinate), cellulose, gelatin and dicalcium phosphate. None of the bottles contain sugar, starch, preservatives, wheat, gluten, corn, soy, dairy, yeast, sodium, artificial color or flavor.
Product Features
Chromium picolinate is a chemical compound and is sold as a nutritional supplement to help with weight loss as it controls cravings for carbohydrates and suppresses appetite. It is sold online and in nutrition stores in various quantities. The maximum dosage is one capsule per day and this is to be taken with meals or as directed by your doctor. Diabetics should only take chromium picolinate with doctor approval.
Advantages
- The cost of chromium picolinate is very low and reasonable.
- Chromium picolinate is readily available online and in nutrition stores.
Disadvantages
- Concern has been expressed about possible DNA damage caused by chromium picolinate.
- Chromium picolinate has various side effects and risks.
- There is little medical evidence to prove the safety of chromium picolinate.
Conclusion
While chromium picolinate appears to help with weight loss by suppressing appetite and controlling cravings for carbohydrates, there is little medical evidence to prove the safeness of this compound. There are also various side effects and risks which may not make it ideal for some individuals. The low price makes it a reasonable choice, however, there are many other supplements out there that are proven safe and effective.
