Chromium(III) picolinate

Chromium(III) picolinate is a chemical compound sold as a nutritional supplement to prevent or treat chromium deficiency. This compound contains chromium in its +3 oxidation state and picolinic acid. Chromium(III) picolinate is marketed to enhance the effect of insulin.

Chemical Structure

Chromium(III) picolinate is a pinkish-red compound with the chemical formula Cr(C6H4NO2)3. It is a coordination complex of chromium(III) with three picolinate ligands.

Uses

Chromium(III) picolinate is primarily used as a dietary supplement due to the role of chromium in the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. It is often used by people with type 2 diabetes and those trying to lose weight.

Safety and Health Effects

While chromium is an essential nutrient, the safety of chromium(III) picolinate as a supplement has been questioned. Some studies suggest that it may cause DNA damage, while others have found no such effect. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not set a Recommended Dietary Allowance for chromium.

See Also

• Chromium
• Picolinic acid
• Dietary supplement
• Insulin
• Type 2 diabetes

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