Benefits of Chromium Picolinate

Are there any dangers of chromium picolinate?

There are two schools of thought when it comes to the benefits of chromium picolinate.

There are those who believe that it plays a role in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and therefore can be supplemented as a weight loss aid.

Then there are others who talk about the dangers of chromium picolinate, claiming it could be cancer-causing as it influences the amount of free radicals (toxic chemicals) in the bloodstream.

Who's right?

It's difficult to determine as there are very few significant studies available on this nutrient, and those that exist are relatively inconclusive.

Let's take a look at the possible benefits of chromium picolinate:

Chromium works with insulin to transport glucose to the body's cells to produce energy. As such it may improve glucose metabolism, which could help regulate weight.

As it may be helpful in assisting insulin, chromium picolinate benefits may include treating Type II Diabetes, as decreased chromium levels are a characteristic of the disease.

Some other purported benefits include: appetite suppression, muscle building and heart disease prevention.

Now let's look at the possible dangers of chromium picolinate:

Although research is limited, there are some studies that point to chromium picolinate cancer causing ability. In a study on hamsters, it was shown to alter genetic material in cells, which raises concerns about cancer risk.

There have also been cases of kidney failure and muscle breakdown, but these dangers of chromium picolinate were associated with very large dosages.

Chromium Picolinate - What's the bottom line?

Whether or not it is an effective weight loss supplement has yet to be conclusively determined, as have the other health benefits and potential dangers.

However, a large percentage diet supplements on the market do contain chromium picolinate along with other nutrients, and many people have experienced success with these products without any significant side effects.

Hopefully, more large studies will be performed on this supplement, so we can know with more certainty whether the health benefits of chromium picolinate are valid, and whether the claims of chromium picolinate cancer causing potential are real.

If you are considering supplementation, make sure you consult your physician first and always adhere to recommended dosages to avoid the potential dangers of chromium picolinate.

more than benefits of chromium picolinate on our weight loss page

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