A META-ANALYSIS OF CHROMIUM PICOLINATE SUPPLEMENTATION AND EFFICACY IN TYPE II DIABETES

Abdulrahman S. Alanazi*

ABSTRACT

Chromium is an essential mineral for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Results of previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses of chromium supplementation and metabolic profiles in diabetes have been inconsistent. The present study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess effects on metabolic profiles and safety in diabetes mellitus. Clinical trials were identified through MEDLINE, Google scholar, MeSH, Medscape, www.Clinicaltrial.gov from 1990 to 2015. Historical search of reference lists of related articles was conducted. Studies were included if they were (i) randomized controlled trials (ii) reported HbA1c or fasting plasma glucose and (iii) at least 3-8 weeks. No language restriction was imposed. Treatment effect was estimated with mean difference and odds ratio, respectively. Fourteen randomized controlled trials met inclusion criteria. Chromium picolinate significantly improved glycemic control (mean difference for HbA1c-0.60%, 95% CI-1.06, 0.15, P=0.002, mean difference for FPG-0.25 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.52, 0.02, P=0.004). In particular, chromium mono therapy significantly reduced triglycerides and increased HDL-C levels. Available evidences suggest favorable effect of chromium supplementation on glycemic control in diabetic patient. In addition, it improves triglycerides and HDL-C levels.

Keywords: Chromium; diabetes mellitus; glycemic control; meta-analysis; lipid profiles.