What Is CLA?
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is an essential fatty acid. This means that CLA must be obtained through the diet because the body has no ability to produce it through the conversion of other fatty substances. Foods containing CLA include meat and dairy products. Unfortunately, due to changes in commercial animal-raising practices, there's been a drastic decrease in the amount of CLA available in milk and meat products; therefore, you may not get adequate amounts of CLA through diet alone. That's where supplements come in. CLA supplement benefits are known to include weight loss, immune support and more. Animal studies suggest that CLA may have other health benefits, but human studies haven't shown the same effects.
How Do CLA Supplements Benefit My Health?
CLA is responsible for moving dietary fats into cells. It also moves glucose (sugar) into cells so that it can be used to make energy, rather than be stored as fat.
A CLA supplement also provides benefits to the immune system and is a potent antioxidant, although its exact mechanism for these functions is not fully understood.
CLA has gained popularity for its use in weight loss. It decreases body fat, improves muscle tone and increases lean muscle mass. It also increases exercise tolerance or the length of time that one can exercise.
Shopping For Quality CLA Supplements
There are many supplement varieties available, and format is a personal preference. When shopping for a quality natural health supplement, select a brand that uses pure, potent ingredients and yields a dosage that works with your health goals and routine.
CLA supplements are available as soft gel capsules. The supplements vary in price depending on the amount of CLA available in each capsule. Some companies have patented processes that increase the yield of CLA from their chosen source, usually vegetable oil.
Cautions & Final Considerations
While CLA is generally well-tolerated, some people taking CLA supplements report digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pains, and indigestion. Poor blood sugar control and increased inflammation have also been side effects that have been reported.
