Abstract

Due to the important physiologic function of trivalent chromium in glucose/insulin homeostasis, some commercial organisations promote Cr³⁺ supplements in maintaining proper carbohydrate and lipid metabolism; regulation of reducing carbohydrate carvings and appetite; prevention of insulin resistance and glucose intolerance; regulation of body composition, including reducing fat mass and increasing lean body mass; optimal body building for athletes; losing weight; treatment of atypical depression as an antidepressant; and prevention of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. On one hand, case reports are commented as ‘nonevidence-based anecdotes’. On the other hand, a number of independent studies warn against adverse health outcomes assigned to chromium picolinate (CrPic) dietary application. This review analyses opinion controversies, demonstrates highly individual reactions towards CrPic dietary supplements and highlights risks when the dietary supplements are used freely as therapeutic agents, without application of advanced diagnostic tools to predict individual outcomes.

Keywords:

Patient records; Individual profiles; Subcellular imaging patterns; Therapy response; Pre/diabetes care; New guidelines; Predictive preventive personalised medicine; Dietary supplements; Healthcare; Integrative medicine