THE EFFECT OF TRIVALENT CHROMIUM ON METABOLIC SYNDROME: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Trivalent chromium is an essential trace element involved in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. The widespread global prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its close association with cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes mellitus have increased scientific interest in the potential metabolic effects of chromium. However, currently available evidence regarding its clinical significance remains inconsistent.

This narrative review describes the role of trivalent chromium in the context of metabolic syndrome. A systematic literature search was conducted in the Scopus and Web of Science databases for studies published between 2015 and 2025. The review included randomized controlled trials, observational studies, experimental studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses that investigated chromium intake, supplementation, or the association between chromium levels and components of metabolic syndrome.

The reviewed studies reported heterogeneous findings regarding the effects of trivalent chromium on components of metabolic syndrome. While some studies demonstrated improvements in glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and lipid profiles, other studies reported no clear or statistically significant effects. The inconsistency of results has been attributed to differences in study design, studied populations, types and dosages of chromium supplementation, and duration of interventions.

The lack of uniform research methodologies, limited sample sizes, and the absence of standardized protocols for chromium supplementation hinder the comparability of results. In addition, the heterogeneity of the studied populations limits the reliability of the available data.

Available evidence does not support the widespread clinical use of trivalent chromium. Therefore, further large-scale studies are required to determine its efficacy and safety.