Biological significance of chromium III for the human organism

摘要

Currently, chromium is probably the most controversial transition metal. In recent publications it is clearly stated that it is notan essential micronutrient and should be considered to have a pharmacological effect. Conflicting scientific reports along witha huge amount of dietary supplements, as well as dietary and sports nutrients available on the market have prompted the authorsto investigate the available information on the range of possible application, efficacy and safety of products containing salts orchelates of chromium III. The authors reviewed articles in electronic databases for the years 1959–2016, and selected works describingthe biochemical, physiological and toxic properties of chromium salts and chelates and the range of possible applicationsin medicine, dietetics and sport. A critical analysis of reports dealing with the effect of chromium on the carbohydrate and lipidmetabolism, body composition, lean body mass and sports performance was carried out. The authors indicated papers analyzingthe mechanism of action of chromium in the cognitive and affective disorders. Much attention has been paid to the safety useof chromium III supplements. There are still some unsolved issues. In the field of toxicology, a limited number of reports aboutenvironmental exposure to trivalent chromium in the workplace draws our attention. In the field of biochemical research, thereis still a need to clarify the mechanism of psychiatric and endocrinological activity, especially in conjunction with the immunesystem. Med Pr 2018;69(2):211–223