Effects of chromium picolinate supplementation on insulin sensitivity, serum lipids, and body composition in healthy, nonobese, older men and women

Background. Chromium is an essential nutrient required for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism Chromium supplementation in humans has been reported to i mprove glucose metabolism and improve serum lipid parameters and to reduce body fat; parameters that worsen with aging. As a result, chromium picolina te has been widely promoted as a health aid for the general population. The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of chromium supplementatio n on insulin sensitivity, serum lipids, and body composition in nonobese, h ealthy men and women of advanced age. Methods. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 19 subje cts (9 men and 10 women), aged 63-77. were given either chromium picolinate , 1000 mu g/d, or a placebo for 8 weeks. Serum lipids were measured at base line and 8 weeks. Insulin sensitivity and body composition were measured wi th the minimal-model intravenous glucose tolerance test and dual-energy x-r ay absorptiometry scan, respectively, at baseline and after 8 weeks of chro mium or placebo supplementation. Results. No significant change in serum lipids, insulin sensitivity, or bod y composition was observed in the chromium group compared with the placebo group. Conclusions. Chromium picolinate supplementation alone does not appear to i mprove insulin sensitivity, serum lipids, or change body composition in non obese, healthy men and women of advanced age.