Chromium Picolinate is a compound of chromium, a naturally occurring mineral (found in trace amounts in foods like red meat and fish) and picolinic acid, a binding compound commonly used in nutritional supplements. The chromium is the key here, as it plays a role in helping the body process insulin. Insulin, of course, is a hormone secreted after eating - and secreted in even greater amounts after eating heavy amounts of carbohydrates. Though it is not supported by scientific evidence, many (Atkins, etc.) believe that slowed or stalled insulin processing leads to increased fat storage, and hence, weight gain.
Chromium Picolinate is heavily marketed as a weight loss aid, and is an ingredient in literally hundreds of over the counter diet pills and supplements. The theory behind it is that a heavy dose of it will stimulate insulin processing - which breaks down glucose and fat. The problem is, science has not been able to show any link between weight loss and consumption of chromium picolinate.
A 1997 study of obese women, all of whom were exercising in the study, found that the addition of chromium picolinate to the diet did not produce any significant weight loss compared to the supplement-free control group. Furthermore, another study found that taking chromium picolinate supplements without exercising actually produced weight gain in the participants. Bottom line: scientific evidence indicates that chromium picolinate is not an effective aid to weight loss, and may in fact even be counterproductive. Enough said.
Jillian Michaels- This impressive online weight loss program was designed by the world-class fitness trainer from the popular TV shows Losing it with Jillian and The Biggest Loser. The program focuses on what works in the long term: motivation to lose weight the right way and keep it off. Her inexpensive diet and exercise plans are personalized to your comfort level as you get in shape and lose weight. Jillian Michaels has created quite a buzz and she deserves it. Her program is free to try.
Copyright 2001-2010 Chase Freedom Inc. "Chase Freedom" is a registered trademark of Chase Freedom Inc. All diet reviews are opinion and unscientific and should not be substituted for the advice of a doctor or registered dietitian. We do endorse and maintain affiliate status with weight loss companies and programs that conform to our opinion that sensible weight loss is best. This opinion includes the following traits: inexpensive, based on traditional strategies of diet and exercise, and independent. Companies and programs include eDiets, Nutrisystem, Jillian Michaels, Denise Austin, Sonoma Diet, Joy's Life Diet, South Beach Diet, Fitness Model Program, Dietwatch, Diet-To-Go among others.