NOTE: This post is from a specific and highly respected manufacturer of supplements, so I can not name the author at this time. When the information they mention is published, and the abstract is available, I will list it on this page.
Chromium is an essential trace mineral that helps the hormone insulin to
function at its full potential. Nicotinate and picolinate are two forms
of chromium. Proponents of the picolinate form claim that it lowers
cholesterol, burns body fat, and increases life span.
In order to evaluate scientific merit of chromium picolinate, we
collaborated on a study with researchers at the University of Texas at
Austin. Despite claims of fat burning and weight loss, it yielded none
of these effects in overweight women. Additionally, in a direct
comparison against chromium nicotinate, the picolinate source was less
effective in supporting the action of insulin.
Additionally, there is some scientific evidence suggesting that chromium
picolinate triggers chromosomal changes that could be a factor in
carcinogenesis. While it is our conclusion that much more research would
be needed to indict chromium picolinate as harmful, its scientific track
record of efficacy is poor. Hence, the nicotinate form is the preferrable medium to provide added chromium to the diet.
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