Light micrograph (LM) of Chromium picolinate crystals. Chromium is an essential trace mineral that helps the body maintain normal blood sugar levels. In addition to its well-studied effects in diabetes, preliminary research has found that chromium supplementation also improves glucose tolerance in people with Turner's syndrome - a disease linked with glucose intolerance. Chromium, in the form called chromium picolinate, has been studied for its potential role in altering body composition. Preliminary research in animals and humans suggested that chromium picolinate increases fat loss and promotes a gain in lean muscle tissue. However, other studies have failed to show a significant effect of chromium picolinate on body composition. The best source of chromium is true brewer's yeast. Chromium is also found in grains and cereals, though much of it is lost when these foods are refined. Magnification: x50 when shortest axis printed at 25