Chromium studies don’t back up claims

Chromium is an essential element that helps break down fats and cholesterol and regulates insulin, the hormone that controls blood sugar. The mineral is found in whole grains, seafood, coffee, tea, meat and brewer’s yeast, and deficiency is rare. Chromium supplements are sold in several forms -- including chromium chloride, chromium nicotinate and, most commonly, chromium picolinate.

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Uses: Some manufacturers claim chromium supplements can promote weight loss, prevent and treat diabetes, build muscle mass, regulate cholesterol, fight heart disease and treat depression.

Dose: Chromium supplement makers often recommend several hundred micrograms per day. Multivitamins containing chromium provide about 20 micrograms to 100 micrograms of the supplement.

Precautions: Very little is known about the long-term safety of taking high doses of chromium, although there is some evidence that it can cause liver and kidney damage. Chromium picolinate may be particularly harmful.

Research: Diabetes is not caused by chromium deficiency, and most studies on diabetics have failed to show any benefits from taking chromium supplements. No rigorous scientific studies have shown that the supplements help people lose weight, build muscle or prevent heart disease. Some animal studies suggest that chromium picolinate has the potential to damage DNA.

Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your health-care provider for advice on selecting a brand.

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-- Elena Conis