“Next Generation” Chromium

At SupplySide East, InterHealth (Benicia, CA) introduced Zychrome, which it calls the “next generation” of chromium. Targeted for maintaining insulin resistance and blood sugar levels, the patent-pending ingredient is said to be twice as effective as chromium picolinate in managing insulin resistance.

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, Zychrome achieved a 30% reduction in insulin resistance and fasting insulin levels in diabetic subjects after three months of supplementation. In addition, the company says that Zychrome also significantly decreased inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha levels by 21%, which is a metabolic marker that may help lead to normal insulin levels and blood sugar control. The company says Zychrome shows promise for a faster-acting, lower-dose therapy.

As far as mechanism of action, the company says that in animal studies, Zychrome has shown to improve insulin receptor substrate. “Through the modulation of the receptor and improvement of insulin sensitivity, you’re getting more blood glucose into the cells, thereby lowering glucose levels,” said Interhealth scientist Francis Lau, PhD.

The ingredient is a unique form of chromium, niacin, and L-cysteine called chromium dinicocysteinate.