Conjugated linolenic acid or CLA is a naturally occurring derivative of the essential fatty acid known as linoleic acid. Specifically, CLA is an omega-6 fatty acid found primarily in meat and dairy foods, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. In recent years, it has gained prominence as a weight loss aid with body fat-reducing properties; also, marketing claims include other benefits such as reducing cholesterol, and protecting against certain types of cancer, yet more research is needed. Unwanted side effects are possible with CLA.
Gastrointestinal Distress
Gastrointestinal upset may occur if you start taking CLA supplements, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Gastrointestinal symptoms include upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea; however, such effects are temporary and should subside as the body gets used to the CLA supplementation. If you experience diarrhea, you need to drink plenty of water to reduce the risk of becoming dehydrated. Notify your physician if gastrointestinal symptoms persist or worsen.
Fatigue
A potentially adverse reaction to supplementing your diet with CLA involves severe fatigue. This side effect may impact your daily routine and performance of required duties. If you experience this degree of fatigue, you may need to initially reduce your daily activities temporarily and get more sleep as your body adjusts to the supplement.
Macular Degeneration
Linoleic acid may seriously affect your vision, as indicated by the Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine. CLA may increase an individual's risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, or ARMD. ARMD is an eye disease associated with progressive deterioration of vision that ultimately results in blindness. It is imperative that you speak with your doctor when considering CLA if you have a family history of eye disease.
Heart Disease
Research data indicate that CLA supplementation can affect your blood vessel function; consequently, this effect may increase your risk of developing heart disease, as reported by the University of Michigan Health System. In the cited study that consisted of healthy volunteers, participants took 4.5 g of CLA daily for 12 weeks. This time period of taking CLA produced an impairment of blood vessels associated with cardiovascular dysfunction. In sum, these findings suggest that long-term use of CLA may lead to heart disease.
Precautions
Research data show that taking CLA supplements also may produce insulin resistance and increase your blood glucose or sugar levels, states Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Therefore, if you are diabetic, caution is warranted since CLA supplementation may exacerbate diabetic symptoms.
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