Chromium dinicotinate

MineralChromiumBest with a meal

What is it

Chromium dinicotinate is a chromium supplement form where chromium is bound to two molecules of niacin (nicotinic acid). It is used for blood sugar and metabolic support.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Glycemic support in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes

Limited Evidence

Meta-analyses show modest reductions in fasting glucose and HbA1c with chromium supplementation; effect sizes are small.

How it works

Chromium is a trace mineral involved in insulin signaling. The dinicotinate form is intended to deliver chromium in a more bioavailable complex. Niacin binding may also support glucose tolerance factor (GTF) activity (a historical concept now less emphasized). Effects on glycemic markers are modest.

Dosage

Doses typically provide 100-400 mcg elemental chromium per day. Adult AI is 20-35 mcg/day.

When and how to take it

Often taken with meals.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Chromium dinicotinate

Used in glucose-support products.

Designed for improved chromium bioavailability.

Safety

Generally well tolerated at typical doses. GI symptoms occasional. Niacin (in the dinicotinate ligand) at supplement-level doses does not usually produce flushing or other niacin side effects.

Who should be cautious

Caution with insulin and oral diabetes medications. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: stay within Adequate Intake.

Interactions

May add to glucose-lowering effects of antidiabetic drugs. Possible reduced absorption of levothyroxine if taken simultaneously.

Food sources

Broccoli, whole grains, brewer's yeast, meats

Amount
small amounts
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Does chromium dinicotinate cause niacin flush?⌄

Not typically. The niacin amount delivered by the dinicotinate ligand at supplement doses is well below flushing thresholds.

Is chromium dinicotinate better than chromium chloride?⌄

Likely modestly more bioavailable, but clinical superiority is small.

References

Chromium dinicotinate on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Chromium dinicotinate on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Chromium dinicotinate (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Chromium dinicotinate with Pilora

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.