Chromium Picolinate for the Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a serious condition that may lead to a number of life-threatening diseases. A reduction in the symptoms of metabolic syndrome could result in decreased morbidity and health care costs and increased quality of life. Chromium is an essential mineral that is used in the breakdown of fats, protein, and carbohydrates. The cholesterol-lowering and blood sugar-stabilizing properties of chromium make the supplement a strong candidate for reducing the symptoms of metabolic syndrome. This study will determine whether chromium supplements can reduce symptoms of metabolic syndrome in abdominally obese individuals. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either chromium supplements or placebo daily for 16 weeks. Participants will have study visits at study start and at Months 2 and 4. A follow-up visit will occur 5 months after the end of the intervention period. Blood tests, urine tests, and nail clippings will be used to assess lipoprotein cholesterol, insulin response to glucose, lean body mass, blood pressure, oxidative stress, and chromium levels in participants.