Supplementation with conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, is a natural treatment derived from the essential fatty acid called linoleic acid. Although additional research supporting the purported health benefits is needed, CLA supplements are promoted to aid in weight loss, enhance athletic performance, reduce high cholesterol and aid in cancer treatment and prevention. If you have any questions or concerns regarding CLA supplements, seek additional guidance from your primary medical provider.
Dosing
The dose of CLA you take daily depends on a variety of factors, including your age and health status. Health professionals with the University of Michigan Health System report that daily treatment with 1.8 to 6 grams of CLA has been used in human research studies. For more specific CLA supplement dosing information, consult your doctor.
Adverse Effects
While receiving treatment with CLA supplement, you may experience mild adverse effects. Common side effects include stomach discomfort, nausea and diarrhea. Frequent, watery bowel movements may be bothersome and can contribute to abdominal cramping or bloating. Chronic diarrhea may also cause your body to lose too much fluid and may induce dehydration. You may also feel unusually fatigued during treatment, which may reduce your ability to remain alert and attentive during daily activities. Seek care from your physician if you experience persistent or severe adverse effects while taking CLA supplements.
Contraindications
Inform your medical provider of any health problems or concerns you have before you start taking CLA supplements. If you have diabetes or metabolic syndrome, avoid treatment with this supplement. CLA supplementation may exacerbate diabetes symptoms or may increase your risk of developing diabetes as a complication of metabolic syndrome. Safety information evaluating the use of CLA supplements during pregnancy is lacking. Consequently, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take CLA supplements unless otherwise instructed by a medical professional. Additionally, a 2005 study published in the "British Journal of Nutrition," Annika Smedman and colleagues report that treatment with CLA supplements increases the amount of C-reactive protein in the blood, a risk factor for heart disease. In part, this research suggests that prolonged treatment with CLA supplements may increase your risk of developing heart disease. If you have a personal or family history of heart problems, do not use CLA supplements unless your doctor recommends this treatment.
Drug Interactions
Always let your doctor know of all medications you are taking before you begin treatment with a new drug or supplement -- including CLA. However, as of January 2011, there are no well-known drug interactions associated with CLA supplementation.
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