Can Chromium Picolinate Help Treat PCOS?

Since PCOS is a disorder that is not well understood, many women have taken it upon themselves to explore other treatment approaches in the hope of improving their symptoms. Over the years there have been researches done with regards to vitamin and even mineral supplementation as a way to at least improve the condition of PCOS women. Although these studies may have some limitations, the results are very promising.

Aside from Vitamin D, chromium picolinate has also been found to benefit insulin resistance in women with PCOS.  In women with insulin resistance, the body needs more than the normal amount of insulin in order to get a desired response. It is believed that the mineral encourages the formation of GTF or the glucose tolerance factor, which is a substance essential in making the body utilize insulin more efficiently.

With this possible treatment approach, it’s important to understand what chromium really is. The main action of chromium is that it can potentiate the action of insulin. As a supplement, it is available as chromium picolinate because the latter helps the body absorb chromium efficiently. And aside from enhancing insulin, there have been claims that it can promote weight loss, reduce body fat, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels among others.

While these may sound like an easy treatment to the many symptoms of PCOS, there are certain precautions that should strictly be observed. Just like any other treatment approach, you should first consult your doctor before taking the supplement. It is never safe to begin any supplementation without knowing the risks involved. And it is equally important to know of any possible drug to drug interaction and adverse effects especially when you have maintenance medications.

I have to go back to my doctor soon, and I am definitely going to bring this up. Hopefully when the weather is better, I can see her again. If you have taken this mineral for PCOS and you noticed results, please let me know.