Chromium Picolinate May Control "Syndrome X"

SAN ANTONIO, Texas--Pre-clinical research indicates that chromium picolinate may increase insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal, posing it to control Syndrome X. The research, conducted using Chromax chromium picolinate, was presented at the scientific sessions of the American Diabetes Association.

Syndrome X is a metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and central obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and high blood sugar levels. The symptoms are similar to those of chromium deficiency.

The study examined the ability of chromium picolinate to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal in rats that are bred with a gene for those symptoms. After a three-month regimen, the chromium group showed improved glucose disposal and significantly lower fasting insulin levels compared to placebo. William Cefalu, M.D., lead researcher and associate professor of medicine in the Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Unit at the University of Vermont College of Medicine, said he plans to follow up the work with future studies to evaluate the efficacy of chromium picolinate in humans. For more information, contact Nutrition 21 at www.nutrition21.com.