There is some evidence that chromium supplements may benefit people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Chromium is a mineral that effectively helps the body use glucose, a type of sugar. Because people with PCOS often have insulin resistance, leading to high blood sugar levels, chromium supplements may help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. Read the entire article to learn about the potential benefits of Chromium for PCOS, dietary sources, and recommended supplements.
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What are Some Benefits of Chromium for PCOS?
Chromium is an essential mineral that effectively helps the body use glucose, a type of sugar. It plays a vital role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins and may have several potential health benefits.
There are several potential benefits of Chromium for PCOS management. Some of them are listed below :
Improved insulin sensitivity: Chromium may help improve insulin sensitivity, which can help reduce blood sugar levels in people with PCOS who have insulin resistance.
Weight loss
Some studies have suggested that chromium supplements may help with weight loss in people with PCOS. It may be due, in part, to the mineral’s ability to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
Reduced hirsutism
Hirsutism, or excess hair growth, is a common symptom of PCOS. Some research suggests that chromium supplements may help reduce hirsutism in people with PCOS.
Related: PCOS Facial Hair – Why hirsutism Occurs?
Increased fertility
Chromium may help improve fertility in people with PCOS by improving insulin sensitivity and regulating menstrual cycles.
Reduced cholesterol levels
Chromium may help lower cholesterol levels by decreasing the production of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, and increasing the production of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol.
Improved mood
Some research suggests that Chromium may help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
Increased muscle mass
Chromium may help increase muscle mass and strength, particularly in older adults.
It’s worth noting that the evidence for these potential benefits of Chromium for people with PCOS is limited and more research is needed to understand its effectiveness fully.
What are some recommended supplements for Chromium deficiency?
Some common chromium supplements include Chromium picolinate, chromium nicotinate, and chromium polynicotinate. These supplements are available in capsules, tablets, and liquid drops.
Chromium Picolinate for PCOS
Chromium picolinate is one of the most recommended forms of Chromium for PCOS management. According to research, Chromium picolinate supplementation has beneficial effects on decreasing BMI, fasting insulin, and free testosterone in PCOS women.
That’s the reason why we recommend Superior Source Naturals Chromium Picolinate Nutritional Supplements for nutritional deficiency of Chromium.
You must try Chromium Picolinate for PCOS in case of chromium deficiency. But, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s dosing instructions, and talking to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement is essential.
Related: Best Protein Powder For PCOS
What are the Dietary Sources of Chromium?
There are several dietary sources of Chromium that may be beneficial for people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS):
Whole grains: Chromium is found in oatmeal, wheat, and brown rice.
Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds, including almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds, are good sources of Chromium.
Broccoli: Broccoli is a good source of Chromium, as well as other nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.
Meat: Meat, particularly organ meats such as liver, are good sources of Chromium.
Fruits: Some fruits, including bananas, apples, and grapes, contain small amounts of Chromium.
It’s worth noting that dietary sources of Chromium may not provide as much of the mineral as supplements. Therefore, if you have PCOS and are considering taking chromium supplements, you should speak with your healthcare provider first. They can help you determine if chromium supplements are appropriate for you and provide guidance on the proper dosage and duration of use.
Related: Why do we recommend Omega 3 for PCOS?
How to know whether you have chromium deficiency or not?
Chromium deficiency is rare, but it can occur in people with poor nutrition or conditions that affect the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Symptoms of chromium deficiency may include:
High blood sugar levels: Chromium plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, and a deficiency may lead to high blood sugar levels.
Weight gain: Chromium may help with weight loss, and a deficiency may cause weight gain.
Increased cholesterol levels: Chromium may help lower cholesterol levels, and a deficiency may lead to an increase in cholesterol.
Depression: Some research suggests that Chromium may help improve mood, and a deficiency may lead to symptoms of depression.
Poor muscle mass and strength: Chromium may help increase muscle mass and strength, and a deficiency may lead to a decline in muscle mass and strength.
It’s worth noting that other factors can also cause these symptoms, and it’s essential to speak with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. They can help determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
If you are concerned about chromium intake or are at risk of deficiency, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor or an expert physician. They can help determine if you are getting enough Chromium in your diet or if supplements may be necessary.
How much Chromium do I need to take for PCOS?
The recommended daily Chromium intake for adults is 35 micrograms (mcg) for men and 25 mcg for women. However, the appropriate dosage of chromium supplements for people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may differ.
It’s important to note that there is no standard dosage of Chromium for people with PCOS, as the appropriate dosage may vary depending on a person’s age, sex, and overall health.
In addition, the safety and effectiveness of chromium supplements for the treatment of PCOS have not been fully established, and more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage.
If you have PCOS and are considering taking chromium supplements, it’s essential to take an expert’s advice and get tested for chromium deficiency first. It will help you determine if chromium supplements are appropriate for you and get guidance on the proper dosage and duration of use.
Related: Detailed List of recommended Supplements for PCOS
The founder of Health Crescent, Azra Khan is a freelance writer and passionate biochemist with a keen interest in promoting well-being through informed choices and creating health and wellness awareness.
