Chromium for fertility

On this page

1. What is chromium?
2. Function and how it works
3. Fertility benefits
4. Recommended daily dose
5. Food sources
6. Cautions and contraindications
7. My Fertility Guide
8. Related pages

1. What is chromium?

Chromium is an essential trace element that plays a key role in glucose metabolism by enhancing the action of insulin. Chromium deficiency is thought to be common in modern Western diets, and is linked to glucose intolerance, weight gain, depression, infertility and decreased sperm count.

Reference ranges and recommended intakes vary from country to country — always interpret guidance against the recommendations of your own healthcare authority.

2. Function and how it works

Chromium supports fertility through several mechanisms:

1. Insulin sensitivity. Chromium is part of the glucose tolerance factor and enhances insulin's action on cells, helping maintain stable blood sugar levels.
2. Reduces sugar cravings. By stabilising blood sugar, chromium helps reduce the cravings for sweets that contribute to insulin resistance and PCOS.
3. Weight management. Chromium supports healthy fat metabolism and may aid weight loss in those with insulin resistance.
4. Sperm count. Chromium deficiency has been linked to reduced sperm count in men.

3. Fertility benefits

Chromium is particularly relevant for women with PCOS or insulin resistance, where stabilising blood sugar is part of restoring ovulation and reducing androgen excess. For men, chromium deficiency may contribute to reduced sperm count, making it part of a comprehensive male fertility supplement strategy.

4. Recommended daily dose

I recommend a daily dose of 100 mcg of chromium, typically as chromium picolinate or chromium polynicotinate (both well-absorbed forms). Some practitioners use higher doses (200–400 mcg) for documented insulin resistance under professional supervision.

5. Food sources

Chromium is found in:

1. Egg yolks
2. Red meat
3. Cheese
4. Fruits (apples, bananas, grapes)
5. Whole grains
6. Honey
7. Vegetables
8. Black pepper and thyme
9. Brewer's yeast

Chromium content of food has fallen significantly over the last century due to soil depletion, making supplementation more relevant than it once was.

6. Cautions and contraindications

1. Chromium is generally well-tolerated; very high doses can cause digestive upset.
2. People with diabetes or those taking diabetes medication should consult their doctor before supplementing chromium, as it may lower blood sugar further.
3. Always consult with a fertility specialist or your doctor before starting any new supplement regime.

7. My Fertility Guide

8. Related pages

• Fertility supplements directory
• Myo-inositol
• Alpha lipoic acid
• Magnesium
• Zinc
• Insulin
• PCOS