Healthy Blood Sugar Level Management
Chromium Picolinate Background and Benefits

Chromium picolinate is a chemical compound with the formula Cr(C6H4NO2)3, derived from chromium (III) and endogenous picolinic acid. The Chromium picolinate biochemical value is to provide chromium in a biologically active form. Chromium is an essential nutrient that is primarily involved in the regulation of insulin levels by increasing the sensitivity of insulin receptors. This action usually occurs through amino acids such as aspartate and glutamate.
Chromium picolinate was discovered in 1917 and is a bright red powder at room temperature. It is poorly soluble in water and generally non-reactive, as is common for chromium compounds. High temperatures or an acidic environment are required to break down chromium picolinate into chromium and picolinic acid. This occurs rapidly in the stomach, and the alkaline environment of the small intestine allows the free chromium to form Cr(III) hydroxide oxide.
 
The absorption rate of chromium via chromium picolinate is two percent, which is higher than other chromium sources such as chromium chloride or chromium nicotinate. This characteristic allows users of chromium picolinate to obtain higher chromium concentrations than with other chromium supplements. The higher absorption rate of chromium picolinate is generally due to its better solubility in fat.

Uses of chromium picolinate.

The main use of chromium picolinate as a dietary supplement is generally to support the body's ability to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Other benefits include healthy cholesterol levels, heart health, and nervous system support.

Signs You May Need Chromium Picolinate

The main signs that you need chromium picolinate usually involve blood sugar regulation, they include high insulin resistance and low glucose tolerance. Chromium picolinate may also help maintain normal chromium levels in the elderly, as chromium storage tends to decrease with age. Dietary chromium deficiencies are rare and are generally limited to patients receiving intravenous nutrition for prolonged periods without chromium supplements.