Chromium Picolinate

200mcg

Cofactor for chromodulin - the oligopeptide that potentiates insulin receptor sensitivity. Picolinate form has 15× superior bioavailability vs chromium chloride. Supports healthy glucose disposal. 40mcg = 100% NRV.

Category Micronutrients
Dose 200mcg
Form Chromium picolinate - superior bioavailability vs chloride form
Evidence Level Moderate - multiple clinical studies

Mechanism

Trivalent chromium (Cr3+) functions as a cofactor for the oligopeptide chromodulin (also known as low-molecular-weight chromium-binding substance, LMWCr). When chromium is incorporated into chromodulin, the complex binds to and activates the insulin receptor's tyrosine kinase - amplifying the intracellular signalling cascade that drives glucose uptake into cells.

Chromium picolinate has approximately 15× superior bioavailability compared to chromium chloride, the form used in most inorganic chromium supplements. Picolinic acid facilitates transport across intestinal epithelium via the same carrier proteins used for other metal picolinates. 40mcg is 100% of the UK NRV.

Key Benefits

  • Cofactor for chromodulin - potentiates insulin receptor signalling
  • Supports healthy glucose disposal after carbohydrate intake
  • Picolinate form: 15× superior bioavailability vs chloride
  • Chromium contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism (GB NHC-authorised)
  • 40mcg = 100% NRV

The Research

Peer-reviewed human trials supporting this ingredient at this dose.

Anderson RA. (1998). J Am Coll Nutr. 17(6):548-55.Chromium, glucose intolerance and diabetes.PubMed →
Cefalu WT, Hu FB. (2004). Diabetes Care. 27(11):2741-51.Role of chromium in human health and in diabetes.PubMed →
Östman E, et al. (2020). PLoS One. 15(7):e0234237.A novel nutritional supplement containing amino acids and chromium decreases postprandial glucose response.PubMed →
In the formula

Chromium Picolinate

200mcg

Chromium picolinate - superior bioavailability vs chloride form

When to take it

Take with meals - chromium acts alongside insulin signalling and is most relevant taken with carbohydrate-containing food.