Chromium Picolinate | Cr(III) Complex | Glucose Metabolism

Product Name: Chromium Picolinate
Molecular Formula: Cr(C₆H₄NO₂)₃ or C₁₈H₁₂CrN₃O₆
Coordination: Cr³⁺ surrounded by three identical picolinate ligands (pyridine-2-carboxylic acid anions)
Appearance: Red-orange crystalline powder
Melting Point: >300 °C (decomposes)
Solubility: Approximately 2 g/L in water at 20 °C; insoluble in non-polar solvents
Stability: Stable Cr³⁺ form; does not convert to Cr⁶⁺ under normal conditions

1. Introduction

Chromium picolinate is a chelated compound of three picolinic acid molecules with Cr³⁺ ion. It improves tissue insulin sensitivity, normalizes carbohydrate metabolism, and promotes weight loss.

Chromium is a component of "glucose tolerance factor" (GTF). In picolinate form, it is better absorbed and stable in the gastrointestinal tract, making it suitable for use as a dietary supplement.

2. Synthesis

Reaction of an aqueous solution of chromium(III) chloride with picolinic acid at pH 4–5, stirring, precipitation of the complex compound, filtration, and drying.

3. Properties

• Appearance: Red-orange crystalline powder

• Melting Point: >300 °C (decomposes)

• Solubility: Approximately 2 g/L in water at 20 °C; insoluble in non-polar solvents

• Stability: Stable Cr³⁺ form; does not convert to Cr⁶⁺ under normal conditions

4. Applications

• Dietary supplements for glycemic control in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes – doses 200–1000 mcg Cr³⁺/day

• Sports complexes for metabolic improvement and fat mass reduction

• Appetite control and reduction of carbohydrate "spikes"

5. Conclusion

Chromium picolinate is an effective and safe source of trivalent chromium for normalizing carbohydrate metabolism and supporting insulin sensitivity.