Chromium picolinate is a dietary supplement used to help people lose weight. According to research conducted by the Pennington Biomedical Research Center (PBRC) people with diabetes may benefit from taking the supplement to help fight back against some of the weight-gain that comes with some diabetes medication. At the same time, the supplement was found to improve blood glucose control and insulin sensitivity.
PBRC researchers presented their findings at the American Diabetes Association (ADA) 65th Annual Scientific Sessions in San Diego, CA.
Of course, anyone interested in taking chromium picolinate – or any supplement — should speak to their healthcare provider first.
The researchers’ findings are important because more than 80 percent of people with type 2 diabetes are also overweight. What’s more, chromium picolinate is easily available in many retail stores.
People with diabetes who are overweight face an increased risk of disease-related problems including cardiovascular (heart) disease.
The study, which was performed in collaboration with the University of Vermont College of Medicine, looked at how a daily dose of chromium picolinate affected people who were taking diabetes medications (sulfonylureas).
The people who took chromium picolinate along with the diabetes medication gained less weight — especially in the abdomen (belly) — than the group taking only the diabetes medication.
“The impact of chromium picolinate on weight gain, particularly weight gain in the abdominal area, is important as research shows that increased abdominal fat is associated with a greater risk for health complications, such as cardiovascular disease,” said study investigator, William Cefalu, MD, chief of the Center's Division of Nutrition and Chronic Diseases.
The study also found that when chromium picolinate is taken along with diabetes medication, people had better insulin sensitivity and glucose control.
As always, speak to your health care provider, if you think chromium picolinate — or any supplement — is right for you.
