Mineral
Chromium (as Chromium Chloride)
Also known as: Chromium, Chromium Chloride, Trivalent Chromium, Cr
Chromium is a trace mineral that enhances insulin action and glucose metabolism as part of the glucose tolerance factor (GTF). It plays a supportive role in macronutrient metabolism and blood sugar regulation.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Chromium (as Chromium Chloride) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Chromium Picolinate | 92 A | $0.33 |
| 2 | Pure Encapsulations PureLean Satiety | 89 A | $0.88 |
| 3 | Thorne Advanced Nutrients | 88 A | $2.40 |
| 4 | Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/Day | 88 A | $0.60 |
| 5 | Thorne Basic Prenatal | 88 A | $1.23 |
| 6 | Thorne Men's Multi 50+ | 88 A | $1.87 |
| 7 | Pure Encapsulations Chromium (picolinate) 500 mcg | 88 A | $0.33 |
| 8 | Pure Encapsulations ChromeMate GTF 600 | 88 A | $0.27 |
| 9 | Pure Encapsulations Chromium (picolinate) 200 mcg | 88 A | $0.21 |
| 10 | Double Wood Chromium Picolinate Supplement | 88 A | $0.13 |
| 11 | Life Extension Optimized Chromium | 88 A | $0.11 |
| 12 | Solgar Chromium Picolinate | 88 A | $0.27 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Chromium (as Chromium Chloride) should I take?
The typical range is 50–200 mcg daily. Studies show effects develop over weeks to months; long-term safety is generally good at recommended doses
When should I take Chromium (as Chromium Chloride)?
With meals containing carbohydrates. Recommended; enhances absorption and optimizes glucose metabolism context.
Which form of Chromium (as Chromium Chloride) is best?
Chromium chloride. Other forms in the catalog: Chromium picolinate, Chromium polynicotinate.
Is Chromium (as Chromium Chloride) safe?
Commonly reported: Generally well-tolerated at recommended doses, Rare: headache, insomnia, or mood changes reported at higher doses.
Which Chromium (as Chromium Chloride) supplement scores highest?
Thorne Chromium Picolinate, at 92/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Daily target & upper limit
35 mcg / dayChromium (as Chromium Chloride) has an established daily reference intake. See best forms, label synonyms, upper-limit warnings, and top-scoring supplements:
Chromium (as Chromium Chloride) dosage reference →Primary uses
- Enhances insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance
- Supports carbohydrate and lipid metabolism
- May help stabilize blood sugar levels
- Cofactor in glucose homeostasis
How it works
- Potentiates insulin receptor signaling and glucose uptake
- Component of glucose tolerance factor (GTF) with niacin and amino acids
- Enhances GLUT4 translocation to cell membrane
Dosage
- Typical range
- 50–200 mcg daily
- Timing
- With meals containing carbohydrates
- With food
- Recommended; enhances absorption and optimizes glucose metabolism context
- Duration
- Studies show effects develop over weeks to months; long-term safety is generally good at recommended doses
- Special populations
- Caution in patients with renal impairment; those with insulin-dependent diabetes should monitor glucose under medical supervision
Forms
- Chromium chloride· 70/100
- Chromium picolinate· 70/100
- Chromium polynicotinate· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated at recommended doses
- Rare: headache, insomnia, or mood changes reported at higher doses
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (chromium is renally cleared)
- Concurrent use of corticosteroids (which increase chromium excretion and may reduce efficacy)
Products containing Chromium (as Chromium Chloride)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Chromium (as Chromium Chloride) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Chromium has solid mechanistic support and several RCTs demonstrating modest effects on glucose control and insulin sensitivity, though effect sizes are inconsistent. Evidence for healthy individuals is weaker than for those with dysglycemia.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Mineral
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.