Appropriate chromium picolinate dosage depends largely on a patient’s age, underlying medical conditions, and reason for taking the dietary supplement in the first place. This trace mineral plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism, and deficiencies can cause health problems. Care providers may recommend supplementation if they feel it would benefit a patient. It is also marketed in some regions as a weight loss and diabetes control tool, although clinical studies have not supported these claims.
Most people get adequate dietary chromium from their food and true deficiencies are extremely rare. Dark leafy greens, dark meats, and whole grains all contain trace amounts, and usually provide enough for people to meet their dietary needs. In some cases, however, people may not get enough, either because of dietary habits or underlying disease. A care provider might also consider recommending a chromium picolinate dosage if there is a belief a patient may benefit from supplementation, sometimes in conjunction with other therapy.
Older adults need more chromium picolinate, and may not be able to get enough through food. They may need supplementation to meet their recommended need of 30 micrograms per day. It is advisable to take the supplement with food to increase absorption, and to pay close attention to the chromium picolinate dosage. While side effects are rare, cases of problems like livery and kidney damage have been identified in some patients taking unusually high amounts of the supplement.
Another concern can be medication conflicts. Patients who take steroids, insulin, beta blockers, and certain other medications may be at risk of adverse interactions. These can be compounded by underlying liver and kidney problems. For these patients, it is advisable to check with a doctor before starting a dietary supplement. The care provider can provide specific information on safe chromium picolinate dosage.
Patients who notice adverse effects when they change their chromium picolinate dosage can discuss the issue with a doctor. It is important to be aware that while dietary supplements are sold over the counter with directions on their use, they are not necessarily reviewed by regulators, and are not safe for use in all patients. People who take them should make sure their doctors know what they take and what the dosage is, as this information could be important to have when prescribing or making medication recommendations. Chromium picolinate is not necessarily unsafe, but can be ill-advised for some patients with underlying health problems.
