CLA is a type of fatty acid found in milk and meat, but can also be taken as a supplement derived from sunflower or safflower oil. It is believed to aid weight loss, improve immune function, lower cholesterol, and reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. However, it may increase insulin resistance in obese people and cause stomach upset.
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a term that refers to several different isomers, or structurally different forms, of linoleic acid. Also known as omega-6, linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid most commonly found in the milk and meat of ruminants. A CLA supplement is a dietary supplement that contains two isomers of CLA, cis-9 and trans-11, which are generally derived from sunflower oil or safflower oil. These supplements are believed to help users reduce their body fat, while maintaining lean muscle mass. Research has also suggested that CLA increases immune system function, improves cholesterol, increases the body’s sensitivity to insulin, and protects against cancer.
While CLA is most commonly found in products derived from ruminants, such as cows and sheep, most supplements contain CLA extracted from cold-pressed oils. The two most commonly used oils are sunflower and safflower. On average, 1 gram (1,000 mg) of safflower oil contains around 40% more CLA than sunflower. Sunflower oil is less expensive, which is why some manufacturers choose to use this oil in their formulas. Supplements containing safflower oil are usually stronger and contain more CLA than those containing other oils.
Some experts recommend taking a CLA supplement because consumers rarely get large amounts of CLA from their diet. One of the richest sources of CLA is milk fat. Red meat, lamb, and olive oil also contain this fatty acid. The problem is that most of these sources are also high in calories and saturated fat. By avoiding unhealthy fats, many people also reduce their CLA intake.
One of the most common reasons consumers start taking a CLA supplement is to help them lose weight. These supplements are frequently advertised as effective weight loss aids. CLA is believed to reduce fat by preventing the fat storage function of lipoprotein lipase. This claim has been supported by numerous studies that have found CLA to be effective in reducing body fat and increasing lean muscle mass.
In addition to its slimming properties, there are several other benefits associated with taking a CLA supplement. CLA is believed to improve immune system function, increase metabolism, lower cholesterol, and combat insulin resistance. Studies have also shown that taking a CLA supplement could help consumers reduce their risk of cancer and heart disease.
The main problem with taking a CLA supplement is that these supplements could increase insulin resistance in obese people. This is because the CLA isomers, cis-9 and trans-11, have been linked to increased insulin resistance. CLA supplements have also been known to cause stomach upset and nausea, especially when taken with milk or other protein. After about two weeks of regular use, these side effects generally subside as the user adjusts to the supplement.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
