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Chromium Polynicotinate

Also known as: niacin-bound chromium, chromium nicotinate, ChromeMate, chromium (III) polynicotinate

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

A chromium supplement with limited evidence for cholesterol support, but real safety concerns at higher doses.

  • What it does

    Chromium polynicotinate is a form of the essential trace mineral chromium bound to niacin (vitamin B3), marketed to support blood sugar regulation and cholesterol levels. Small clinical trials...

  • Evidence quality

    Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.

  • Clinical dose

    200-400 mcg daily based on study doses

See full breakdown ↓ Methodology →

What the Science Says

Chromium polynicotinate is a form of the essential trace mineral chromium bound to niacin (vitamin B3), marketed to support blood sugar regulation and cholesterol levels. Small clinical trials suggest it may modestly lower total cholesterol and LDL when combined with other ingredients like grape seed extract or glucomannan fiber. However, most positive results come from combination products, making it hard to isolate chromium's specific contribution.

What It Doesn't Do

Won't meaningfully lower cholesterol on its own — the studies showing benefits used it alongside other supplements. No solid evidence it burns fat or builds muscle. Not a proven diabetes treatment. Don't confuse it with toxic hexavalent chromium (Cr VI) — they are different, but Cr III supplements are not risk-free either.

Evidence-Based Benefits

May lower total cholesterol and LDL when combined with grape seed extract or glucomannan fiber.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 200 mcg twice daily

Reduced systolic blood pressure in aging rats when combined with grape seed extract and zinc.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 5 ppm in diet (animal study)

Absorption & Bioavailability

Unknown — no bioavailability studies were provided. The niacin-bound form is marketed as better absorbed than other chromium forms, but this claim is not supported by the provided papers.

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Linked to a case of acute pancreatitis (lipase >3000 U/L) in a 59-year-old woman after starting a chromium polynicotinate supplement
  • Linked to a case of toxic hepatitis with liver chromium levels over 10x normal after 5 months of use
  • Most positive cholesterol studies used chromium in combination with other ingredients — solo benefits are unclear
  • Over 1,000 registered supplement products contain this ingredient despite very limited clinical evidence
  • Long-term safety data in humans is lacking; animal studies do not confirm human safety

Research Sources

  • PubMed
  • NIH DSLD

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25