Chromium status appears to be an important factor in glucose metabolism: individuals with lower chromium levels are more likely to have type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes than those with higher levels, and low chromium status is associated with poor glycemic control and insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes.^1,2,3,4 Furthermore, chromium supplementation has been shown to improve glucose control, insulin sensitivity, and other metabolic variables in people with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

In one placebo-controlled trial that included 64 participants with type 2 diabetes and heart disease, taking 200 mcg per day of chromium was associated with greater weight loss, lower fasting glucose and insulin levels, improved insulin sensitivity, and reduced blood pressure after four months. In addition, chromium supplementation led to lower levels of inflammatory markers and higher antioxidant capacity.⁵ A meta-analysis of 28 other randomized controlled trials concluded that chromium supplementation, particularly chromium chloride or chromium picolinate, reduces fasting blood glucose levels, triglyceride levels, and hemoglobin A1c values, and increases HDL-cholesterol levels.⁶ Because of its ability to help regulate dopamine and serotonin activity, some researchers propose chromium may be especially beneficial in people with type 2 diabetes who also suffer from depression or binge eating.⁷

Studies showing beneficial effects from chromium supplementation have generally used 200 mcg per day or more. Many doctors recommend up to 1,000 mcg per day for people with diabetes.

Research has shown that supplementing with chromium (200 mcg per day)⁸ or magnesium (340 mg per day)⁹ can prevent blood sugar levels from falling excessively in people with hypoglycemia. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) has also been found to be helpful for hypoglycemic people.¹⁰ Other nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, manganese, and vitamin B6, may help control blood sugar levels in diabetics.¹¹ Since there are similarities in the way the body regulates high and low blood sugar levels, these nutrients might be helpful for hypoglycemia as well, although the amounts needed for that purpose are not known.