We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is Chromium Polynicotinate?

By L. Roux
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 18,191
Share

Chromium polynicotinate is an alternative form of the element chromium that allows for better absorption in the human body than other forms of chromium. It was developed and patented by the Department of Agriculture in the United States and it can be taken daily as an additional nutritional supplement. Chromium is not easily absorbed by the human body—it is estimated that more than 80 percent of adults have a chromium deficiency. For this reason, it may be necessary to obtain chromium from alternative sources.

This form of chromium binds with vitamin B-3, also known as niacin; the result of which can easily be absorbed in the body. There are various other forms of chromium, including chromium picolinate and chromium aspartate. Chromium polynicotinate can be bought as a supplement and taken on a daily basis. The recommended dosage of chromium polynicotinate is 50 to 200 micrograms (mcg) per day. It is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women consume a slightly higher daily dosage to ensure an adequate amount of chromium is absorbed.

Benefits of chromium include weight loss, increased lean muscle mass and a reduction in blood-glucose levels. Chromium is also believed to enhance the effectiveness of insulin in the body, which may be beneficial to diabetic patients. Chromium may also assist in the metabolism of fats and proteins.

Studies have shown that by combining chromium polynicotinate with their training program, athletes will likely experience a 21-percent increase in fat loss and a 42-percent increase in lean muscle mass. Studies have also shown that this form of chromium may improve the ratio of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in cholesterol levels.

It has also been suggested that chromium polynicotinate may help to reduce the aging process in individuals. Since chromium has a beneficial influence on insulin, it may help keep insulin levels low and regulated, thereby improving overall health. This supplement should be taken with meals.

It is suggested that the side effects of chromium may include kidney damage and anemia. Chromium picolinate has been known to cause chromosome damage However, the use of chromium polynicotinate is considered to be completely safe when used at the recommended dosage. Chromium may be found in many multivitamin supplements and is usually considered inexpensive as well.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-chromium-polynicotinate.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.