chromium

Chromium is an essential trace mineral required for normal carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. It is primarily used as a dietary supplement to prevent or treat chromium deficiency. The biologically active form in humans is trivalent chromium. Its main mechanism of action involves potentiating the effects of insulin by enhancing insulin receptor activity and downstream signaling pathways (including PI3K/Akt), which promotes glucose uptake into cells[5][6]. Chromium supplementation has been studied for potential benefits in type 2 diabetes (improving glycemic control), metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), dyslipidemia, weight management, and athletic performance; however, evidence supporting its efficacy beyond correcting deficiency remains limited or mixed[1][2][4][8]. It is not considered a pharmaceutical drug but rather a dietary supplement.

Brand names

Chromium 3Chromium3Chromium-3Chromium PicolinateGlucose Tolerance FactorTrivalent Chromium

Other names

trivalent chromiumchromium picolinate