Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has gained popularity in the last few years due to its health benefits. This has left many wondering, what does conjugated linoleic acid do for the body, and what is it indeed beneficial for? In this blog, we will answer these questions and explore how does conjugated linoleic acid works as well as its safety aspect, but before that, let’s take a look at what’s conjugated linoleic acid.
What is Conjugated Linoleic Acid?
It is a group of omega-6 fatty acid isomers found predominantly in foods from ruminant animals, such as dairy and beef. There are dozens of naturally occurring forms of CLA, but the most studied are the 9c,11t-18:2 and 10t,12c-18:2 isomers. Most CLA supplements are derived from safflower or sunflower oils, which are chemically altered to resemble the naturally occurring forms found in foods.
What Does CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) Do?
CLA is widely marketed for its ability to:
● Help with weight loss
● Increase muscle mass
● Regulate cholesterol
● Support immune function
● Exert anticarcinogenic effects
However, what does conjugated linoleic acid do at a molecular level? Well, it has been shown to:
● Influence how fat cells develop and store fat (adipogenesis)
● Alter energy expenditure and metabolism through mitochondria
● Modify inflammation-related signaling in the body
● Trigger programmed cell death (apoptosis) in fat cells
These mechanisms have led researchers to investigate CLA's potential to combat obesity, metabolic syndrome, certain cancers, and cardiovascular risk. However, it's important to remember that these effects vary widely depending on the isomer of CLA, and the dose.
What Are the Benefits of Conjugated Linoleic Acid?
CLA offers several potential health benefits in women. We have listed some of them below:
Supports Weight Loss and Reduces Body Fat
If you are wondering does conjugated linoleic acid help you lose weight, here’s the answer. CLA helps reduce body weight and fat mass. This effect could be especially beneficial for postmenopausal women who are at higher risk of obesity due to hormonal changes. CLA works by decreasing fat cell size and, to a lesser extent, fat cell number. It seems to particularly target abdominal fat, which is more closely linked to metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
May Lower the Risk of Hormone-Related Cancers
Certain CLA isomers have anti-aromatase activity, meaning they can reduce the enzyme that converts androgens to oestrogen, potentially lowering oestrogen levels and reducing the proliferation of hormone-dependent breast cancer cells. This has led to interest in using CLA as a preventative strategy against breast cancer, especially in postmenopausal women.
Anti-Obesity Effects Not Dependent on Oestrogen
The anti-obesity effects of CLA appear to work independent of oestrogen levels. This could make CLA a logical supplement for women experiencing weight gain after menopause.
Possible Immune and Metabolic Benefits
CLA may have modest effects on improving immune function and could help with body composition, potentially offsetting some of the increased risks associated with obesity, such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. However, its effects on actual glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in women are mixed and may depend on baseline body composition.
May Help Reduce Risk of Chronic Diseases
CLA's impact on fat distribution and body composition may lower the risk of metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and potentially type 2 diabetes, conditions that women, particularly after menopause, become more susceptible to.
However, women with fatty liver or other health conditions should consult with a healthcare provider before taking CLA supplements.
How Does CLA Work?
CLA can work via several mechanisms, such as:
1. Energy Metabolism: CLA can increase mitochondrial uncoupling (making mitochondria less efficient at producing ATP, thus burning more energy as heat) and fatty acid oxidation, resulting in more calories burnt.
2. Adipogenesis Inhibition: It can inhibit the formation of new fat cells and reduce fat storage via effects on the PPAR-gamma pathway.
3. Apoptosis: It may induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in mature fat cells, contributing to reduced fat mass.
4. Anti-inflammatory Effects: By affecting cytokine production, CLA might reduce inflammation that underlies metabolic diseases.
The Trusted Choice: Goddess Nutrition CLA for Women in the UK
Here at Goddess Nutrition, our CLA supplement is considered the best conjugated linoleic acid for women in UK, crafted to meet the health and wellness needs of women. It stands out due to its premium, UK-made quality and clean, gluten-free, non-GMO formulation.
Each capsule contains a potent dose of conjugated linoleic acid designed to reduce body fat, increase lean muscle mass, and curb appetite, making weight management more achievable for women. The supplement also supports bone health and offers cardiovascular protection. With its trustworthy sourcing, our CLA delivers a reliable foundation for women striving for improved body composition and overall wellness.
So, if you are wondering “where to buy conjugated linoleic acid?” you can purchase our CLA supplement directly from our official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is conjugated linoleic acid used for?
CLA is mainly used for reducing body fat, supporting weight management, and improving body composition. It’s also promoted for enhancing athletic performance and has been studied for its potential anti-carcinogenic, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and immune-boosting properties. Some also use CLA for cholesterol regulation and overall metabolic health.
Is conjugated linoleic acid safe?
For those wondering, “Is conjugated linoleic acid safe?” You’ll be glad to know that CLA is considered safe when consumed in the right amount. Supplement doses up to 6 grams per day are generally well tolerated, with no reports of serious adverse side effects in people.
What is conjugated linoleic acid good for?
CLA is good for reducing body fat, supporting weight management, and improving body composition. Research also supports its anti-carcinogenic, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and immunomodulatory effects. CLA can also help lower certain risks associated with metabolic syndrome and contribute to overall health
What foods have conjugated linoleic acid?
CLA is primarily found in foods from ruminant animals. Rich sources include grass-fed beef, lamb, butter, whole milk, cheese, yoghurt, and ice cream. Smaller amounts are also present in pork, chicken, turkey, and fish.
Is conjugated linoleic acid good for weight loss?
CLA can cause small but measurable fat loss on its own, especially in the first six months. For significant weight loss, it is recommended to pair it with a calorie deficit diet and regular exercise.