Chromium deficiency

[Becky]

Chromium deficiency is rare in developed countries and can result from intravenous feeding (total parenteral nutrition) used for a long time.
Chromium enables insulin (which controls blood sugar levels) to function and helps in the processing (metabolism) and storage of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. However, it is not clear whether chromium should be considered an essential (required) trace element. Experts have not yet determined whether chromium supplements are useful for people with diabetes. People with diabetes should not take chromium supplements unless they are supervised by a diabetes expert.
Only a small amount of the chromium in food is absorbed. Chromium is absorbed better when eaten with foods that contain vitamin C and niacin.
Chromium supplements do not enhance muscle size or strength.
Symptoms of chromium deficiency may include weight loss, confusion, impaired coordination, and a reduced response to sugar (glucose) in blood, increasing the risk of diabetes.
Treatment of chromium deficiency may involve chromium supplements.
(See also Overview of Minerals.)

[Dave Paprocki]

Only 1 to 3% of biologically active trivalent chromium (Cr) is absorbed. Normal plasma levels are 0.05 to 0.50 mcg/L (1.0 to 9.6 nmol/L). However, it is not clear whether chromium should be considered an essential (required) trace element (1).
Chromium potentiates insulin activity; however, it is not known whether chromium picolinate supplementation is beneficial in diabetes mellitus. Patients with diabetes should not take chromium supplements unless use is supervised by a diabetes specialist. Chromium supplements do not enhance muscle size or strength.
Patients receiving long-term total parenteral nutrition rarely develop chromium deficiency. Symptoms respond to trivalent chromium 150 to 250 mg.
(See also Overview of Mineral Deficiency and Toxicity.)