Chromium picolinate is a combination of the trace mineral chromium
and picolinic acid. Picolinic acid is a natural metabolite (a naturally
occurring product of metabolism) found in breast milk.
Chromium supplied in this form is more easily absorbed and used
by the body.
The Reference Daily Intake (RDI) for chromium picolinate has been
set at 120 mcg by the Institute of Medicine. Clinical research suggests,
however, that 200–400 mcg is needed for achieving optimal
health benefits.
Since our chromium supply is depleted as we age and after strenuous
exercise, you may want to increase your daily intake based on your
individual needs.
It is important to understand that your body’s need for chromium
is essential and life-long. Individual response to chromium supplementation
can vary. You may see some benefits, like improved body composition,
in as few as four weeks when you use chromium picolinate in conjunction
with a healthy diet and exercise.
Studies have shown that better glucose metabolism can occur in as
few as six to twelve weeks. Other benefits, such as healthy cholesterol
metabolism, may take longer and can be confirmed by your doctor.
Chromium picolinate has exhibited a strong safety profile in clinical studies, even when taken with medication. However, as with any dietary supplement, you should consult your physician before adding chromium picolinate to your medication regimen.
Chromium picolinate has been analyzed in over 35 clinical trials utilizing over 2,000 participants. Research has established that chromium picolinate is safe at levels as high as 500 mg, or 500,000 mcg, in animals, which is more than 500 times the typical daily dose for an average adult (not recommended). Chromium picolinate is produced under conditions that ensure quality and safety.
There have been no substantiated side effects reported in the roughly 1 billion doses consumed since chromium picolinate has been on the market.
Chromium chloride is difficult for your body to absorb effectively, so you will need additional chromium supplementation. Chromium picolinate is a smart choice because it is a highly bioavailable form of chromium. Your body absorbs chromium picolinate much more efficiently than it does chromium chloride.
While there is no “quick fix” for losing weight permanently,
chromium picolinate can be a valuable addition to a well-designed,
long-term weight loss program. People who are overweight are often
insulin resistant. Given the body of evidence demonstrating chromium’s
health benefits in people who are insulin resistant, chromium supplementation
should be considered a natural choice for supporting a healthier
metabolism in people who are overweight. When taken in conjunction
with a well-balanced diet and regular exercise, chromium picolinate
can effectively support your goal of achieving and maintaining a
healthy weight, by promoting a healthy metabolism, reducing body
fat and preserving lean muscle.
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