Chromium Picolinate Improves Cognitive Function in Elderly

CINCINNATIProviding supplemental chromium picolinate to elderly adults with early memory decline can improve cognitive performance and brain function, according to a study published in Nutritional Neuroscience (2010 Jun;13(3):116-22. DOI:10.1179/147683010X12611460764084). Researchers from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine randomized 26 older adults with indications of early memory decline in the double blind, placebo-controlled study to receive 1,000 mcg chromium picolinate (as Chromax®, from Nutrition 21) or placebo capsules for 12 weeks. Memory and depression were assessed prior to treatment and during the final week; function magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans were also conducted on a subset of subjects.

Chromium supplementation improved learning, recall and recognition memory tasks. Also, fMRI indicated subjects receiving chromium picolinate had greater activation in the right thalamic, right temporal, right posterior parietal and bifrontal regions of the brain; no such changes were seen in those taking the placebo. The researchers concluded supplementation with chromium picolinate could enhance cognitive inhibitory control and brain activation in older adults at risk for neurodegeneration.

Recent research in the areas of cognitive brain function and Alzheimers disease has shown significant links to glucose metabolism. James Komorowski, M.S., C.N.S., vice president research and development for Nutrition 21, stated, In the past, we have seen the benefits of Chromax chromium picolinate in improving glucose metabolism in muscle and fat cells; especially in people with diabetes. But these new study results support the findings that Chromax chromium picolinate can also improve glucose metabolism in the brain, resulting in improved brain function.

Michael A. Zeher, president and CEO of Nutrition 21, commented, The results of this study further expand the clinical benefits of Chromax chromium picolinate and open the door for a new line of product applications covered by our expanding patent portfolio.