Chromium
Low
chromium levels are associated
with high blood sugar, high triglycerides,
and low levels of good cholesterol (HDL). It may
also play a role in the body's ability to metabolize carbohydrates and
fats. More is known about these effects in people with diabetes and it
looks like it plays less of a role in healthy people.
Studies
on weight loss with chromium picolinate did not show any difference
between it and a placebo pill.
In
studies that were only short term, no significant side effects were
reported. However, there are some theoretical dangers to using this supplement. It is possible that free-radicals could be made. There
have been reports of rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure in people who were
taking more than 1,000 mcg per day.
It is important you
discuss any weight loss or exercise plan with your doctor. Only you and
your physician can decide what is best for you. Some people have
certain conditions that prevent them from doing all exercises, and goal
body weights may be different for different people. You need to discuss
all these things with your physician before starting any weight loss or
exercise program.
This
article was written by
John
Vickery, MD.
References
Am
Fam Physician. 2004 Nov 1;70(9):1731-8.
Last updated 7/19/09
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