← All ingredients

Chromium

A trace mineral that helps insulin do its job. Some studies show a modest benefit for blood sugar, while others show little effect.

Supplements can interact with medications and aren't right for everyone, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with a chronic condition. Ask your provider before you start.

Studied for

  • Blood sugar support
  • Insulin resistance
  • Sugar cravings (limited evidence)
  • PCOS with insulin resistance (limited evidence)

Found naturally in

  • Broccoli
  • Whole grains
  • Green beans
  • Potatoes
  • Brewer's yeast
What variations of chromium exist?Our top pick, what to skip, and how to read the label

Label red flags

  • Chromium stacked across a multi, a blood sugar formula, and a weight-loss product
  • Weight-loss claims, which are not well supported

Check with a provider

  • Taking insulin or diabetes medicine. Chromium may add to the blood-sugar-lowering effect, so watch for lows.
  • Taking levothyroxine. Chromium may reduce absorption, so separate doses by several hours.
  • Kidney or liver disease
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding beyond the amount in a prenatal

Supplements that contain it

5 products in Dr. Lesher's dispensary list chromium on the label.

Parts of the body it affects

Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.

Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0

Dr. Lesher, ND

Ready to find the root cause?

Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.

Book a consult now