Chromium Picolinate

Complete Ingredient Profile
Ingredient Name & Common Synonyms
Primary Name: Chromium (as Chromium Picolinate)
Common Synonyms: Trivalent chromium, Chromium chelate, Glucose tolerance factor
Chemical Classification: Essential trace mineral, Organochromium complex
Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₁₂CrN₃O₆
Overview
Botanical Family: Naturally occurring in Brassicaceae (broccoli), Poaceae (whole grains), Vitaceae (grapes)
Primary Origin: Broccoli, grape juice, whole grains, brewer's yeast, green beans, nuts
Extraction Method: Chelation of chromium with picolinic acid for enhanced bioavailability
Molecular Structure: Chromium III ion bound to three picolinic acid molecules
Appearance: Red to purple crystalline powder, odorless with slight metallic taste
Benefits & Uses
For Women's Hormonal Health:
- Insulin Sensitivity: Chromium enhances insulin sensitivity, crucial for women with PCOS and metabolic hormone imbalances
- Blood Sugar Balance: Helps stabilize blood glucose levels, reducing hormonal fluctuations caused by insulin resistance
- Weight Management: Supports healthy metabolism and body composition, important for hormonal balance
Primary Health Benefits:
- Glucose Metabolism: Enhances insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake by cells for better blood sugar control
- Carbohydrate Processing: Supports proper carbohydrate metabolism and blood sugar regulation
- Lipid Metabolism: May help improve cholesterol and triglyceride profiles for cardiovascular health
- Body Composition: Supports healthy body composition when combined with exercise and proper nutrition
Mechanism of Action:
- Insulin Potentiation: Enhances insulin binding and cellular glucose uptake for improved metabolic function
- Enzyme Activation: Activates enzymes involved in glucose and lipid metabolism
- Gene Expression: May influence expression of genes related to glucose metabolism and insulin signaling
- Metabolic Enhancement: Facilitates efficient cellular energy production from glucose and other nutrients
Safety & Warnings
General Safety Profile:
Chromium picolinate is generally safe and well-tolerated. Our 99µg dose provides therapeutic benefits while remaining well within established safety limits.
Dosage Safety:
- Standard Dosage: 25–35µg daily adequate intake for adults
- Orbelli Dosage: 99µg per serving provides therapeutic level for metabolic support
- Maximum Safe Dose: Up to 1000µg daily considered safe for healthy adults
Potential Side Effects:
- Minimal Effects: Generally well-tolerated with few reported side effects
- Digestive Effects: Rare mild stomach upset or nausea in sensitive individuals
- Skin Reactions: Very rare allergic skin reactions in sensitive individuals
- Throat Irritation: May cause mild throat irritation in some individuals - this is normal and typically resolves quickly
Important Warnings:
Diabetes Medications: May enhance blood sugar lowering effects; monitor closely
Kidney/Liver Disease: Consult healthcare provider if kidney or liver conditions present
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Limited safety data; consult healthcare provider
Drug Interactions: May interact with certain medications affecting blood sugar
Recommended Patch-Test Instructions:
Not applicable for oral supplements. For topical applications containing chromium, perform a 48-hour patch test on inner forearm.
Formulation Tips
Physical Properties:
- pH Range: 3.0–4.0 (acidic in aqueous solution)
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water due to picolinate chelation
- Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions, light-sensitive
- Bioavailability: Superior absorption compared to chromium chloride or other forms
Optimal Dosing:
- Therapeutic Range: 50–200µg daily for metabolic support
- Orbelli Formula: 99µg per serving (optimal therapeutic dose)
- Bioavailability: Enhanced absorption due to picolinate chelation
- Timing: Best taken with meals for optimal absorption and blood sugar support
Pairing Suggestions:
- Synergistic with: Alpha-lipoic acid, cinnamon extract, vanadium for glucose support
- Compatible with: B vitamins, minerals, antioxidants
- Enhanced by: Vitamin C may enhance chromium absorption
- Best taken: With carbohydrate-containing meals for optimal metabolic support
Stability Considerations:
- Light Protection: Store away from direct sunlight
- Temperature Control: Stable at room temperature; avoid excessive heat
- pH Stability: Maintains stability in slightly acidic to neutral conditions
- Oxidation Resistance: Chelation and formulation can support oxidative stability
Scientific References
- NIH Fact Sheet (2024): Chromium - Health Professional Fact Sheet - NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, 2024
- FDA Evidence Review (2006): Chromium Picolinate and Type 2 Diabetes: FDA Evidence Review - PubMed, 2006
- PCOS Clinical Trial (2020): Chromium Picolinate in PCOS Management - Clinical Trial, 2020
- Clinical Overview: Chromium: Overview and Clinical Applications - WebMD Professional Reference
Related Orbelli Products
- Women's Hormonal Balance - Features 99µg Chromium for metabolic support and glucose regulation
- Synergistically combined with myo-inositol and other metabolic-supporting nutrients
- Additional product links to be added
Last updated: August 2025 | This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice.









