Chromium improves blood sugar control in diabetes
6.0Moderate
evidence
evidence
The Claim
It is widely believed that chromium can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve glycemic control in people with diabetes.
Origin
This belief originates from studies in the 1990s that suggested a positive effect of chromium on glucose levels, as well as its known role in enhancing insulin action.
What Science Says
Research results are mixed. Some randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses indicate a modest improvement in fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels, particularly in people with poor glycemic control. However, the overall effect size is small and varies significantly between studies, suggesting that chromium supplementation may not be universally effective.
Verdict
Partially True
Sources
- PMID:39541030 Chromium supplementation and type 2 diabetes mellitus: an extensive systematic review.
- PMID:33783683 Effect of Chromium Supplementation on Blood Glucose and Lipid Levels in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
- PMID:36638933 Comparative effects of vitamin and mineral supplements in the management of type 2 diabetes in primary care: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.