Chromium is a trace element that is beneficial in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in our body. Our body needs a very small amount of chromium. It helps people with diabetes—whether it is insulin dependent, non-insulin dependent, pre–diabetes, or steroid-induced diabetes. Some other health benefits of chromium include health support for polycystic ovarian syndrome, hyperlipidemia, depression, hypertriglyceridemia, and weight loss.
 

Multivitamin tablets or capsules available in the market contain chromium as an essential mineral. Chromium picolinate is a compound found effective in Type 2 diabetes. Other chromium supplements available in the market are chromium nicotinate and chromium citrate.

Chromium can lower the fasting blood sugar levels, insulin levels, and help insulin work well. This mineral is effective for weight loss as well. Interestingly, some studies prove that chromium is effective for insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, i.e., Type 1 diabetes. It means that it has the potential to generate insulin in the body.
 

For weight loss and for increasing good cholesterol (high-density lipoproteins), chromium is quite effective as well. While chromium may reduce weight slowly, the procedure is safe. Weight gain in diabetic patients caused due to intake of oral hypoglycemic drugs is also well managed by chromium. In other forms of obesity like nutritional, hormonal, and genetic types, the role of chromium supplements needs more research.
 

Generally, it is safe to take chromium in adults even for longer periods. Minor side effects reported by some subjects taking chromium supplements include headache, dizziness, skin irritation, mood changes, and impaired judgments. Higher doses and prolonged use is generally not recommended for people with liver or kidney disorders and pregnant and lactating mothers. People allergic to chromium are also not advised to consume chromium supplements for the fear of swelling, irritation, and redness of the skin.