What Is the Difference Between Chromium Picolinate and Chromium GTF?
The difference between chromium picolinate and chromium GTF is that chromium picolinate is an artificial version of chromium, and chromium GTF refers to naturally occurring trivalent chromium. Trivalent chromium is part of the glucose tolerance factor and repaired some impaired glucose tolerance damage in rats during laboratory studies.
Chromium is a metallic element present in trace amounts that improves the behavior of insulin and assists the body in the storage of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Chromium picolinate and chromium GTF are the best known versions of chromium in medical use. They are often used interchangeably, with chromium GTF often serving as a seller’s brand name for chromium picolinate.
The two elements are functionally the same when consumed. Both can help regulate insulin motion and production, both can be stored in the body for extended periods of time and both can cause damage to the body when used in high doses for too long.
The vast majority of Americans have a chromium deficiency due to the refinement processes most food goes through. Grape juice, meats, broccoli, romaine lettuce, ripe tomatoes and raw onions are all excellent natural sources of chromium for the vast majority of people. For some people who do not have liver or kidney disease, additional chromium is very useful.