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24-Hour Chromium Intake Measurement

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the total amount of chromium consumed in your diet over a 24-hour period. Chromium is a trace mineral that helps regulate blood sugar and metabolism, but most people get enough from food.

Quick summary

["Understanding your chromium intake helps assess dietary balance and potential deficiencies."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
81024-2
Short code
Chromium intake 24h Measured
Synonyms
Chromium intake 24h Measured
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
20
Ref high
400
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
measured
CPT
82670
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Chromium is essential for normal metabolism, but most healthy individuals obtain sufficient amounts through diet. This test is often used in research or specialized dietary studies rather than routine care.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll record all foods and beverages consumed in a 24-hour period, including supplements, and return the collected data to your healthcare provider.

How the Test Works

Instead of a blood or urine sample, this test relies on dietary records. Your provider may ask you to track intake via a food diary or app to ensure accuracy.

Common Uses

This test is primarily used in clinical research, dietary studies, or when evaluating chromium deficiency symptoms (e.g., fatigue, poor wound healing) in specialized cases.

Reference range

Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24h Chromium Intake

Frequently asked questions

What Might This Test Indicate?
If your intake is significantly lower than recommended, it may suggest dietary deficiencies or restricted eating patterns. However, chromium levels in blood/urine are typically measured separately for diagnosis.
How Does This Compare to Other Tests?
Unlike blood chromium tests, this measure focuses on intake rather than body stores. It’s not a diagnostic tool but may complement other assessments in research settings.
Can I Adjust My Diet Based on This Result?
No. This test doesn’t provide direct guidance—it’s a data collection tool. Work with your provider to interpret results in context of your overall health.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy