Vitamins & minerals
Chromium Picolinate
Names you may see: chromium Cr picolinate
The quick take
Chromium picolinate is a supplemental form of the trace mineral chromium.
A closer look
What forms will I see on a label?
Compare elemental chromium in micrograms, not the total weight of the picolinate compound.
Why people use it
It is marketed for blood-sugar support, appetite control and body composition.
These are common goals and marketing uses. The evidence section below explains what research supports.
What does the evidence tell us?
Effects on blood sugar are inconsistent. Average weight and body-fat changes are very small and have limited practical significance. It is not a dependable muscle-building ingredient.
What should I know before using it?
It can interact with insulin, other diabetes medicines and levothyroxine. People with kidney or liver disease should seek advice before use. More is not necessarily better.
Sources & further reading
Content reviewed: September 30, 2026
General educational information. Follow the product label and seek individual advice when needed.