Effect of Chromium Supplementation on Insulin Sensitivity and Lipid Profile in Overweight Adults in Benin City, Edo State

Chromium has been proposed as an insulin-sensitising micronutrient relevant to metabolic syndrome management, yet clinical trial evidence in African populations remains sparse. This study investigated the effect of chromium picolinate supplementation on insulin sensitivity and lipid profile in overweight adults in Benin City, Edo State, South South Nigeria. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial enrolled 80 overweight adults aged 25 to 55 years. Participants were randomised to receive 400 micrograms of chromium picolinate daily or placebo for twelve weeks. Fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were assessed at baseline and endpoint. Mixed ANOVA and intention-to-treat analysis were applied. Results showed significant reductions in homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance and fasting insulin in the chromium group compared to placebo. Total cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly reduced in chromium recipients, while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased. No serious adverse events were reported. The study fills a gap in chromium supplementation trial evidence from sub-Saharan Africa, demonstrating benefit in a Nigerian overweight cohort. Chromium supplementation as an adjunct to lifestyle modification is proposed for further investigation in metabolic syndrome management contexts. Keywords: chromium, insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, overweight, Benin City.