Conjugated Linoleic Acid is the modified form of the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid. CLA is derived from dairy products, grass-fed cattles, and safflower oil. The richest dietary source of CLA is milk fat while safflower oil is the most common source of CLA supplements. This fatty acid is considered essential, because it is involved in many biological processes in the body and produces numerous CLA benefits. Either from dietary CLA sources or CLA supplements, it exhibits anti-carcinogenic properties, produces weight loss effects, and reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
Although Conjugated Linoleic Acid is a form of Linoleic acid, they are entirely different from each other. In terms of structure, when Linoleic is curvy in shape, CLA is its straighter version. They are both considered essential, but excessive linoleic acid leads to increased levels of harmful cholesterol in the body as well as more accumulation of fat deposits. CLA works by balancing Linoleic acid excess to inhibit possible health problems related to high linoleic acid levels.
CLA Benefits
- A special kind of CLA called Tonalin CLA is a famous weight loss product in the supplements market. CLA and weight loss have been directly related to each other due to CLA’s ability to decrease the body’s storage of fats. Furthermore, CLA prevents the refilling of fat cells to maintain a leaner look.
- The best CLA supplement assists the body to burn more calories at a faster rate. This action benefits athletes and body builders for improved built.
- CLA supplements also enhance muscle growth for more creation of lean muscle mass. This mechanism helps in creating a more muscular built and improving endurance and vitality.
- Conjugated Linoleic acid participates in regulating healthy cholesterol levels in the blood. By doing this, it may prevent heart attack, stroke, hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, and other health problems related to high blood cholesterol levels.
- Emerging studies suggest that taking Tonalin benefits immune function for lower instances of colds and flu. CLA works by reducing the production of certain substances called leukotrienes and prostaglandins which have immune-suppressing effects.
- By lowering insulin resistance, CLA benefits people with diabetes and those at risk of developing this life-threatening disease. People with diabetes produce low insulin levels or are resistant to this metabolic hormone causing elevated blood glucose levels. Increased serum glucose is the main reason for all symptoms of diabetes.
- CLA supplements enhance energy production by promoting efficient utilization of fats and sugar in the body.
- This essential fatty acid may also be involved in the management of arthritis and its debilitating symptoms. CLA works by blocking the production of prostaglandins and cytokines which are substances that induce inflammation.
CLA Side Effects
Natural CLA from dietary sources produces no side effects. For those taking CLA supplements, there had been report of mild CLA side effects including nausea and diarrhea. These digestive side effects of CLA can be prevented by taking CLA supplements with a meal.
