The Benefits Of Cla Supplements

Conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, is a naturally occurring fatty acid found in meat, milk and dairy products. Only ruminant or cud-chewing animals produce CLA when their digestive system converts linoleic acid, according to the European Responsible Nutrition Alliance. Although it's sometimes referred to as a trans fat, technically it's not. While it provides several health benefits, which were first noticed in the 1970s, it does cause side effects, so consult your doctor before taking it.

Weight Loss

About 68 percent of Americans struggle with obesity or overweight. According to "Prescription for Drug Alternatives," CLA helps to reduce body fat and for some lucky users, it also helps to increase lean body mass, which helps your body to burn more calories. In one study published in the April 2005 issue of "The Journal of Nutrition," CLA reduced body fat and body mass index within the first six months and helped to maintain the weight loss. For weight loss, "Prescription for Drug Alternatives" recommends taking 1,000 to 1,500 mg of CLA before a meal three times daily. However, you should still consult your doctor before taking this supplement.

Immune Health

Conjugated linoleic acid helps to reduce inflammation-causing chemicals in the body that contribute to health problems such as atherosclerosis --- build up of plaque in the arteries --- hypertension and allergies. In one study published in the "British Journal of Nutrition" in 2008, adults with birch pollen allergies who took CLA reported improved overall well-being and less sneezing during pollen season. Blood tests also revealed that they had lower levels of inflammatory chemicals called TNF-alpha, interferon-gamma and interleukin-5.

Cancer Protection

The leading cancer in America is non-melanoma skin cancer. Breast cancer is the second-leading form of cancer diagnosed in American women, with about one in eight women who reach age 80 being affected. Preliminary research suggests that conjugated linoleic acid might provide some protection against breast cancer. In one laboratory study published in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition," CLA inhibited the growth of human malignant melanoma, breast and colorectal cancer cells. The researchers pointed out that the fatty acid was more effective than beta-carotene.