ChromeMate® is a niacin-bound form of chromium, an essential trace mineral required for energy production and proper insulin function. Some evidence points to a connection between insulin resistance (reduced ability of insulin to lower blood sugar), oxidative stress and high blood pressure. This study evaluated the effects of niacin-bound chromium (NBC) and grape seed extract (GSE) on blood pressure, lipids and indicators of glucose regulation. In the first investigation, NBC and GSE fed to normotensive rats significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by 6 and 3 millimeters of mercury, respectively. Compared to control animals, plasma insulin levels decreased significantly, though no differences were seen in other glucose-related parameters. Both NBC and GSE significantly lowered TBARS (a biomarker of free radical damage) in kidney tissue. No significant effects on blood lipids were noted. In the second study, hypertensive rats were fed NBC, GSE, or NBC and GSE combined. Systolic pressure was lowered significantly by all three treatments compared to controls, though no difference in insulin values was detected. The renin-angiotensin system plays an important role in regulating blood pressure. To determine whether GSE and NBC affect this system, all treatment groups were given a hypertensive medication (losartan) that lowers blood pressure, in part, by blocking a key messenger within the system. The systolic blood pressure reductions that were observed after administering the drug suggest that GSE, NBC, or both together, can influence the renin-angiotensin system. In summary, ChromeMate®, alone or combined with grape seed extract, was shown to act as an antioxidant, lower blood pressure in normal and hypertensive rats, and enhance insulin function in rats with normal blood pressure. These results suggest that ChromeMate® could serve as a useful dietary supplement to promote healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Source: Tyson DA, Talpur NA, Echard BW, Bagchi D, Preuss HG, Acute Effects of Grape Seed Extract and Niacin-Bound Chromium on Cardiovascular Parameters of Normotensive and Hypertensive Rats, Research Communications in Pharmacology and Toxicology 5:91-108, 2000.