Thought to help insulin work, though whether it's truly essential is debated — EFSA concluded it isn't.
What does Chromium do?
Proposed to enhance insulin action; the mechanism is not well established.
Where does Chromium act in the body?
Blood sugar regulation (proposed).
Which foods contain Chromium?
Broccoli, whole grains, meat, potatoes, some spices.
How much Chromium do adults need?
US Adequate Intake: 35 mcg (men), 25 mcg (women) ages 19–50. No upper limit set.
What happens with too little Chromium?
Only seen in people on long-term intravenous nutrition.
Can you get too much Chromium?
Rare reports of kidney and liver problems with supplements.
What does Chromium interact with?
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What is known and unknown about Chromium?
Supplements for weight loss or blood sugar show little meaningful benefit in most trials. Expert bodies disagree on essentiality.
Evidence & sources
EFSA concluded there is no evidence of beneficial effects associated with chromium intake in healthy people, and did not set a reference value. Evidence: regulatory. Known: EFSA's 2014 review of the evidence. Unknown: US still lists an Adequate Intake. Source: European Food Safety Authority, Scientific Opinion on Dietary Reference Values for chromium (2014).