What is Chromium?

Chromium is a mineral that helps your body use sugar properly. It works with insulin to move glucose into your cells for energy. You can find chromium in whole grains, nuts, and some vegetables. Most people get enough from food. While chromium is important, taking too much in supplements may cause side effects.

Experts

Neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman discusses Chromium's minor role in reducing blood glucose levels, noting its potential as part of a broader strategy for blood sugar control (Huberman Lab Episode 16). He highlights that studies show a small effect, suggesting it may support metabolic health indirectly relevant to brain function and energy.

Dr. Robert Lustig, a pediatric endocrinologist, emphasizes reducing sugar intake for metabolic health, likely favoring dietary Chromium over supplements, given his focus on whole foods and minimizing processed sugars’ impact on glucose metabolism.

Nutrition researcher Dr. Rhonda Patrick advocates for balanced diets rich in micronutrients, suggesting Chromium from foods like whole grains and vegetables as a natural way to support overall health, consistent with her evidence-based nutrition approach.

Optimal

For potential brain function and energy benefits, some studies use Chromium supplements of 200-1000 mcg daily, significantly exceeding the Adequate Intake (AI) of 35 mcg for men and 25 mcg for women (Improved cognitive-cerebral function in older adults with chromium supplementation). Chromium picolinate is a common, bioavailable form, and taking it with meals may enhance its effects, though experts recommend not exceeding 200 mcg daily without medical supervision to avoid potential side effects (CHROMIUM Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews).

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the Adequate Intake (AI) for Chromium is 28-30 mcg daily, best obtained from diet to support maternal and fetal health while avoiding risks like reduced fetal growth from excess intake (Exposure to chromium during pregnancy and longitudinally assessed fetal growth). Supplements should only be taken under medical supervision, particularly for gestational diabetes, as per guidelines from WebMD).

Summary

Optimal Intake (male 85kg/181cm / female 52kg/171cm)

Cognitive optimization male: 35-50 mcg/day with appropriate cofactors
Cognitive optimization female: 25-35 mcg/day with appropriate cofactors
Energy optimization male: 35-50 mcg/day (standard activity), 50-100 mcg/day (athletic performance)
Energy optimization female: 25-35 mcg/day (standard activity), 35-70 mcg/day (athletic performance)
Optimal blood levels: No standardized blood test available for clinical use

Five best animal sources:

Beef liver: 85g (3 oz) provides 3.8 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 782g/27.6 oz)
Oysters: 85g (3 oz) provides 2.9 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 1,025g/36.2 oz)
Turkey breast: 85g (3 oz) provides 1.7 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 1,750g/61.7 oz)
Beef: 85g (3 oz) provides 2 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 1,487g/52.5 oz)
Eggs: 1 large egg provides 0.5 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 70 eggs)

Five best non-animal sources:

Broccoli: 156g (1 cup) provides 22 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 1.6 cups)
Grape juice: 240ml (1 cup) provides 7.5 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 4.7 cups)
Whole grain bread: 1 slice provides 1.4 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 25 slices)
Brewer’s yeast: 30g (1 oz) provides 5.3 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 5.7 oz)
Black pepper: 1 tsp provides 1.5 mcg (35 mcg AI reached with 23.3 tsp)

Consistent intake required? Yes, chromium is not stored in significant amounts in the body. Daily intake through diet is necessary for optimal glucose metabolism and energy production. Maintaining consistent intake is especially important for those engaging in regular physical activity or experiencing metabolic challenges.

Are higher doses dangerous? Toxicity from dietary chromium or typical supplement doses is rare. The trivalent form (Cr³⁺) found in food and most supplements has very low toxicity. No upper limit has been established for chromium. However, extremely high doses (>1,000 mcg/day) may cause side effects in some individuals, and the hexavalent form (industrial exposure) is toxic.

Optimal timing for intake:

With meals: Taking chromium with food improves absorption and reduces potential for digestive discomfort
Pre-workout: Some athletes take chromium 30-60 minutes before exercise to support glucose utilization
With carbohydrate-containing meals: Enhances the insulin response to carbohydrates
Consistent timing: Regular daily intake is more important than specific timing

Introduction

Chromium is an essential trace mineral that plays a critical role in glucose and lipid metabolism. It exists in several oxidation states, with trivalent chromium (Cr³⁺) being the stable and biologically active form found in food and supplements. Hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺), by contrast, is a toxic industrial form not found in the food supply.

Chromium functions primarily by enhancing the action of insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood glucose and facilitating cellular energy production. It is a component of the glucose tolerance factor (GTF), a complex that helps insulin bind more effectively to cell receptors, improving glucose uptake into cells.

Key roles of chromium in the body include:

Enhancing insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
Supporting proper carbohydrate utilization
Assisting in protein metabolism
Contributing to lipid metabolism and transport
Supporting brain function through glucose regulation
Potentially enhancing exercise performance and recovery

The human body contains very small amounts of chromium, with the highest concentrations found in the liver, spleen, soft tissue, and bones. Unlike many minerals, there are no reliable biomarkers for chromium status, making deficiency difficult to diagnose through standard blood tests.

According to experts like Dr. Rhonda Patrick, chromium’s role in glucose metabolism makes it particularly important for energy production and cognitive function. Dr. Paul Saladino notes its significance for metabolic health on various dietary approaches, including carnivore and omnivorous patterns.

Effects at Different Chromium Levels

Optimal Levels

Efficient glucose metabolism and energy production
Enhanced insulin sensitivity
Normal blood glucose levels
Proper carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism
Stable energy levels throughout the day
Healthy appetite regulation
Optimal cognitive function
Normal lipid profiles
Proper muscle glycogen utilization during exercise
Efficient post-exercise recovery
Stable mood and mental clarity

Deficiency

Impaired glucose tolerance
Reduced insulin sensitivity
Elevated blood glucose levels
Increased fatigue, especially after meals
Decreased exercise capacity
Poor recovery from workouts
Increased sugar cravings
Mild cognitive issues (brain fog, difficulty concentrating)
Subtle changes in lipid metabolism
Mild mood disturbances

Severe Deficiency

Significantly impaired glucose metabolism
Diabetes-like symptoms
Pronounced fatigue and energy depletion
Severe disruptions in lipid metabolism
Significant weight management issues
Peripheral neuropathy symptoms
Profound cognitive impairment
Compromised immune function
Anxiety and irritability
Severely reduced athletic performance

Excess (Chromium Toxicity)

Extremely rare from dietary sources or typical supplementation
Headaches
Dizziness
Skin irritations or rashes
Gastrointestinal issues
Liver or kidney damage (in extreme cases)
Potential disruption of other mineral balances
Chromosomal damage (primarily with hexavalent chromium industrial exposure)

Recommended Dosage

Chromium intake is measured in micrograms (mcg).

General Recommendations

By Age Group

Age Group	AI (mcg/day)
Infants (0-6 months)	0.2
Infants (7-12 months)	5.5
Children (1-3 years)	11
Children (4-8 years)	15
Boys (9-13 years)	25
Girls (9-13 years)	21
Boys (14-18 years)	35
Girls (14-18 years)	24
Men (19-50 years)	35
Women (19-50 years)	25
Men (51+ years)	30
Women (51+ years)	20
Pregnancy (14-18 years)	29
Pregnancy (19-50 years)	30
Lactation (14-18 years)	44
Lactation (19-50 years)	45

For Specific Body Types

Male (85kg, 181cm)

Standard AI: 35 mcg/day
Adjusted for athletic activity: 50-100 mcg/day
For optimal cognitive performance: 35-50 mcg/day with appropriate cofactors

Female (52kg, 171cm)

Standard AI: 25 mcg/day
Adjusted for athletic activity: 35-70 mcg/day
For optimal cognitive performance: 25-35 mcg/day with appropriate cofactors

The Adequate Intake (AI) represents the minimum amount needed to prevent deficiency in a healthy individual. Many experts suggest higher intakes for optimal performance, especially for athletes or those with metabolic challenges. According to functional medicine practitioners focusing on metabolic optimization, higher doses may provide enhanced insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation benefits.

Safe Upper Limits & Toxicity

Maximum Safe Dosage

Upper Intake Levels

No Upper Limit (UL) has been established for chromium due to its low toxicity in the trivalent form (the form found in food and most supplements).

For Specific Body Types

Male (85kg, 181cm)

No established UL: Clinical trials have used doses up to 1,000 mcg/day without significant adverse effects
Doses of 200-1,000 mcg/day have been used in research settings for various health outcomes
Most supplements provide 200-600 mcg per dose, which appears safe for most individuals

Female (52kg, 171cm)

No established UL: Same as for males
Slightly lower doses may be appropriate due to lower body weight
Most common supplement doses used in studies range from 200-600 mcg/day

Note: Trivalent chromium has a wide safety margin. The lack of an established UL reflects the low toxicity rather than a lack of research. Extremely high doses (multiple thousands of micrograms) may potentially interfere with other mineral absorption or cause mild side effects.

Dangerous Dose Levels

Acute Toxicity: Not established for dietary chromium; would require extremely high intake
Chronic Toxicity: Not well-defined for trivalent chromium; some concerns at extremely high supplemental doses (>1,000 mcg daily for extended periods)
Industrial Exposure: Hexavalent chromium (not found in food or supplements) is toxic and potentially carcinogenic

Signs of Chromium Excess

Symptoms of excessive chromium intake might include:

Headaches
Dizziness
Skin irritations or rashes
Digestive discomfort
Liver or kidney issues (with extreme, prolonged high doses)
Potential DNA damage (with industrial hexavalent chromium exposure)

Health Effects and Benefits

Glucose Metabolism

Enhances insulin binding to cell receptors
Improves insulin sensitivity and function
Supports efficient glucose uptake into cells
Helps maintain normal blood glucose levels
May reduce insulin resistance
Supports glycogen formation and storage
Reduces glucose fluctuations and energy crashes
Potentially beneficial for metabolic syndrome

Lipid Metabolism

May help maintain healthy cholesterol levels
Potentially reduces triglyceride levels
Could improve HDL/LDL cholesterol ratio
Supports efficient fat utilization
May enhance fatty acid metabolism
Could reduce abnormal fat deposition
Supports overall cardiovascular health
May improve metabolic flexibility

Brain Function

Supports brain energy through improved glucose metabolism
May enhance cognitive performance and mental clarity
Could reduce brain fog associated with blood sugar fluctuations
Potentially supports neurotransmitter production
May improve focus and attention
Supports long-term brain health through metabolic regulation
Could potentially reduce neuroinflammation
May help maintain neuronal energy production

Athletic Performance

Enhances glucose uptake into muscle cells
May improve muscle glycogen storage
Could enhance energy availability during exercise
Potentially reduces fatigue during endurance activities
May support protein synthesis through improved insulin function
Potentially enhances recovery after intense training
Could improve body composition through metabolic effects
May optimize carbohydrate utilization during exercise

Weight Management

Supports healthy appetite regulation
May reduce food cravings, particularly for sweets
Helps stabilize blood sugar levels
Potentially enhances fat metabolism
May support lean mass retention during weight loss
Could improve metabolic rate through enhanced insulin function
Potentially reduces emotional eating triggered by blood sugar crashes
May enhance satiety signals

Hormonal Balance

Optimizes insulin function
May indirectly support reproductive hormone balance
Could enhance thyroid hormone efficiency
Potentially improves leptin and ghrelin signaling
May support cortisol regulation through blood sugar stability
Could enhance growth hormone response to exercise
Potentially reduces stress-related metabolic dysfunction
Supports overall endocrine system function

Deficiency Symptoms

Chromium deficiency can cause:

Impaired glucose tolerance
Elevated blood glucose levels
Increased insulin requirements
Fatigue and energy fluctuations
Increased appetite, especially for sweets
Poor weight management
Anxiety or mood disturbances
Difficulty concentrating
Elevated blood lipids
Reduced exercise capacity
Poor recovery from physical activity
Increased susceptibility to metabolic syndrome
Decreased lean body mass
Peripheral neuropathy (in severe cases)
Reduced immune function
Decreased stress tolerance

Sources of Chromium

Food Sources with Amounts to Meet Requirements

Animal Sources

Food	Serving Size	Chromium Content (mcg)	Amount to Reach AI (35 mcg)	Amount to Reach UL (N/A)
Beef liver	85g (3 oz)	3.8	782g (27.6 oz)	N/A
Oysters	85g (3 oz)	2.9	1,025g (36.2 oz)	N/A
Turkey breast	85g (3 oz)	1.7	1,750g (61.7 oz)	N/A
Beef	85g (3 oz)	2	1,487g (52.5 oz)	N/A
Eggs	1 large	0.5	70 eggs	N/A
Chicken breast	85g (3 oz)	0.5	5,950g (210 oz)	N/A
Liver, pork	85g (3 oz)	1.6	1,856g (65.5 oz)	N/A
Tuna, canned	85g (3 oz)	1.5	1,983g (70 oz)	N/A
Ham	85g (3 oz)	0.8	3,719g (131.3 oz)	N/A

Plant Sources

Food	Serving Size	Chromium Content (mcg)	Amount to Reach AI (35 mcg)	Amount to Reach UL (N/A)
Broccoli	156g (1 cup)	22	248g (1.6 cups)	N/A
Grape juice	240ml (1 cup)	7.5	1,120ml (4.7 cups)	N/A
Whole grain bread	1 slice	1.4	25 slices	N/A
Brewer’s yeast	30g (1 oz)	5.3	198g (6.6 oz)	N/A
Black pepper	1 tsp	1.5	23.3 tsp	N/A
Green beans	125g (1 cup)	2	2,188g (17.5 cups)	N/A
Potatoes	1 medium	2.7	13 potatoes	N/A
Apples	1 medium	1.4	25 apples	N/A
Orange juice	240ml (1 cup)	2.2	3,818ml (15.9 cups)	N/A
Brown rice	195g (1 cup)	2.5	2,730g (14 cups)	N/A

*Note: Chromium content can vary significantly based on growing conditions, soil quality, and food processing methods. These values are averages. There is no established UL (Upper Limit) for chromium.

Supplements

Types of Chromium Supplements

Chromium Picolinate: Highly bioavailable form, most commonly used in supplements and research
Chromium Polynicotinate: Also called chromium nicotinate or niacin-bound chromium, well-absorbed form
Chromium Chloride: Less bioavailable form, not commonly used in modern supplements
Chromium GTF (Glucose Tolerance Factor): Yeast-based form designed to mimic natural chromium compounds
Chromium Histidinate: Newer form with potentially enhanced absorption
Chromium Glycinate: Amino acid chelate that may have good bioavailability
Chromium Citrate: Another chelated form with moderate absorption
High-Chromium Yeast: Whole food form that may contain multiple chromium complexes

Considerations When Choosing Supplements

Bioavailability: Picolinate and polynicotinate forms are generally better absorbed than chloride
Purpose: Different forms may have varying effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
Dosage: Most supplements provide 200-600 mcg per dose, well above the AI
Quality: Select brands with third-party testing (USP, NSF, ConsumerLab)
Additional Ingredients: Some formulations include synergistic nutrients like biotin or cinnamon
Form: Consider tablets, capsules, or liquid forms based on personal preference
Timing: Taking with meals generally improves absorption and reduces potential for digestive effects
Interactions: Be aware of potential interactions with medications, particularly those affecting blood sugar

Dr. Rhonda Patrick has discussed chromium’s metabolic benefits, particularly in the context of optimizing glucose metabolism and mitochondrial function. Functional medicine practitioners often recommend chromium picolinate for its research support and bioavailability.

Chromium Optimization Strategies

Absorption Enhancement

Vitamin C Synergy: Consuming vitamin C alongside chromium may enhance absorption
Avoid High-Dose Zinc: Taking very high doses of zinc may interfere with chromium absorption
Balanced Intake: Maintain appropriate balance with other trace minerals
Food Forms: Chromium from whole foods may have better bioavailability than isolated supplements
Meal Timing: Taking chromium with food rather than on an empty stomach
Avoid Phytates: High-phytate foods may reduce mineral absorption including chromium
Cooking Methods: How foods are prepared can affect chromium content and bioavailability

Dietary Strategies

Balanced Approach: Include both animal and plant sources for optimal chromium intake
Spice Integration: Using spices like black pepper and cinnamon may contribute to chromium intake
Whole Foods Focus: Minimally processed foods generally retain more chromium
Broccoli Addition: Regular consumption provides significant bioavailable chromium
Strategic Beverages: Occasional grape juice or wine can contribute to chromium intake
Liver Consumption: Periodic inclusion of organ meats provides chromium and complementary nutrients
Reduce Refined Carbs: High sugar intake may increase chromium excretion
Moderate Exercise: Regular physical activity may improve chromium utilization

Supplement Strategies for Optimal Energy

Form Selection: Chromium picolinate or polynicotinate for energy-specific benefits
Timing Strategy: Some benefit from taking before carbohydrate-containing meals
Workout Support: Taking 30-60 minutes before exercise may support performance
Dosing Approach: Starting with lower doses (200 mcg) and assessing response
Cofactor Integration: Combining with B-vitamins for enhanced energy production
Cycling Protocol: Some practitioners recommend periodic breaks from supplementation
Testing Correlation: Monitoring glucose levels or insulin response to assess effectiveness
Individualization: Adjusting dosage based on personal response and metabolic needs

Synergistic Nutrients

Biotin: Works with chromium in glucose metabolism pathways
Vitamin C: Enhances absorption and shares some metabolic functions
B-Complex Vitamins: Support overall energy metabolism alongside chromium
Magnesium: Critical for insulin function and glucose metabolism
Alpha Lipoic Acid: Potent antioxidant that may enhance chromium’s metabolic effects
Cinnamon: Contains chromium and has independent insulin-sensitizing properties
Zinc: Balanced intake supports optimal mineral utilization
Vanadium: Another trace mineral that supports insulin function
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: May improve insulin sensitivity alongside chromium

Special Considerations

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Chromium needs increase during pregnancy
Adequate chromium helps manage gestational glucose metabolism
Supplements should be discussed with healthcare providers
Natural food sources are generally preferred during pregnancy
AI increases to 30 mcg during pregnancy and 45 mcg during lactation
No evidence of harm at standard supplement doses, but caution advised
Focus on nutrient-dense foods like broccoli, whole grains, and quality animal products

Medical Conditions Affecting Chromium

Diabetes: May increase chromium requirements and benefit from optimization
Metabolic syndrome: Chromium status may influence insulin sensitivity
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): May benefit from chromium’s effects on insulin
Gastrointestinal disorders: Could impair chromium absorption
Kidney disease: May alter chromium metabolism and excretion
Hypoglycemia: Chromium’s glucose-regulating effects should be monitored
Athletic overtraining: May increase chromium needs or utilization

Medication Interactions

Insulin: Chromium may enhance insulin action, requiring monitoring
Oral diabetes medications: Potential additive effects requiring adjustment
Beta-blockers: May inhibit chromium release, affecting metabolism
Corticosteroids: May increase chromium requirements
Antacids: May reduce chromium absorption when taken concurrently
NSAIDs: Long-term use may affect mineral status including chromium
Proton pump inhibitors: May reduce absorption of some minerals
Levothyroxine: Should be separated from chromium supplements by 4 hours

Personalized Recommendations

For Male (85kg, 181cm)

Aim for at least the AI of 35 mcg/day; athletic individuals may benefit from 50-100 mcg/day
Include chromium-rich foods like broccoli, whole grains, and quality animal proteins regularly
Consider 200-400 mcg of supplemental chromium picolinate if blood sugar regulation is a goal
Evaluate response through energy levels, workout performance, and recovery
For optimal metabolic function, combine chromium optimization with magnesium (400-500 mg/day)
Monitor glucose stability, especially if engaging in fasting or low-carb dietary approaches
For cognitive enhancement, take chromium with breakfast to support day-long glucose regulation
Increase intake during periods of intense physical training or metabolic stress
Consider periodic blood glucose monitoring to assess metabolic optimization

For Female (52kg, 171cm)

Target the AI of 25 mcg/day; active women may benefit from 35-70 mcg/day
Include chromium-rich foods regularly, focusing on both plant and animal sources
Consider 100-200 mcg of supplemental chromium if needed for metabolic support
Be aware that hormonal fluctuations may influence chromium requirements
Combine with magnesium (310-350 mg/day) for enhanced metabolic effects
Monitor energy stability throughout the menstrual cycle
For cognitive benefits, maintain consistent chromium intake for stable glucose levels
Be aware that oral contraceptives may influence mineral status and metabolism
Consider additional support during perimenopause when metabolism often changes

Activity-Level Adjustments

Sedentary: Standard AI is usually sufficient
Moderately Active: Increase by 15-25 mcg/day
Athletic/Intense Training: Increase by 25-50 mcg/day
Endurance Athletes: May require increases of 50-100 mcg/day during intense training periods
High-Stress Periods: Consider temporary increases of 25-50 mcg/day
Recovery Phases: Maintain consistent intake rather than reducing
Post-Exercise: Critical period for chromium function in glycogen replenishment

Chromium for Cognitive Performance

Current Research Highlights

Chromium may enhance cognitive performance through improved glucose metabolism
Brain is highly dependent on stable glucose supply for optimal function
Some studies show improvements in working memory with chromium supplementation
May reduce brain fog associated with blood sugar fluctuations
Potentially enhances neurotransmitter production through metabolic optimization
Could improve attention and focus by stabilizing energy delivery to brain
Preliminary research suggests potential neuroprotective effects
May help maintain cognitive performance during aging

Implementation Strategies

Focus on consistent chromium intake for stable glucose metabolism
Morning dose (100-200 mcg) may support all-day cognitive performance
Combine with omega-3 fatty acids for synergistic effects on brain function
Ensure adequate B-vitamins, especially B6 and B12, for optimal utilization
Pair with anti-inflammatory foods to reduce potential neuroinflammation
Monitor subjective improvements in focus, memory, and mental clarity
Consider chromium as part of a comprehensive cognitive enhancement strategy
Most beneficial for those with suboptimal glucose metabolism or insulin sensitivity

Chromium for Energy Production

Metabolic Mechanisms

Central role in insulin function and glucose transport into cells
Enhances cellular uptake of glucose for ATP production
Supports efficient glycogen storage in muscles and liver
Helps maintain stable blood glucose levels
May improve mitochondrial function through metabolic effects
Reduces energy crashes associated with poor glucose regulation
Supports amino acid transport for protein synthesis and recovery
Enhances metabolic flexibility between fuel sources

Implementation Strategies

Choose chromium picolinate for energy-specific support
Strategic timing around workouts for performance benefits
Combine with B-complex vitamins for enhanced ATP production
Pair with magnesium for synergistic metabolic support
Consider adding alpha-lipoic acid for enhanced energy metabolism
Integrate with balanced macronutrient timing for optimal results
Focus on consistency rather than high doses for long-term benefits
Monitor improvements in exercise capacity, endurance, and recovery

Expert Insights

Dr. Rhonda Patrick discusses chromium’s role in mitochondrial function and energy metabolism
Functional medicine practitioners highlight its importance for metabolic flexibility
Sports nutrition experts note potential benefits for glycogen replenishment and recovery
Dr. Paul Saladino acknowledges chromium’s role in overall metabolic health
Research suggests individuals with poor glucose control may experience more pronounced benefits
Individual genetic variations may influence chromium requirements and metabolism

Summary

Chromium is an essential trace mineral that plays a critical role in glucose metabolism, insulin function, and energy production. While required in very small amounts, optimal chromium status can significantly impact metabolic health, energy levels, and potentially cognitive function.

Getting Enough: Most people benefit from a combination of chromium-rich foods and potentially targeted supplementation
Avoiding Excess: Toxicity from food sources or typical supplement doses is extremely rare, but always follow recommended guidelines
Best Approach: Focus on consistent intake through varied diet, with supplements considered based on individual needs
Form Matters: If supplementing, chromium picolinate is generally well-researched and bioavailable
Energy Optimization: Emphasis on stable blood glucose levels, efficient insulin function, and consistent chromium intake
Cognitive Enhancement: Support brain energy through optimized glucose metabolism and reduced blood sugar fluctuations
Synergistic Approach: Combine with appropriate cofactors like B-vitamins, magnesium, and antioxidants for optimal results

Remember that individual nutritional needs vary based on activity level, metabolic health, stress, medications, health conditions, and genetic factors. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting chromium supplementation, especially if you have diabetes or are taking medications that affect blood glucose.