Conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, is a class of 28 fatty acids that are primarily found in animal proteins such as meat, fish, and dairy, and has also been used as a nutritional supplement for its potential health benefits. Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that causes damage to your central nervous system, causing a loss in muscle function. CLA, when taken as a nutritional supplement, may improve some of the symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis, however, more research needs to be conducted regarding the extent of its benefits. Consult your physician before using a supplement containing CLA for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.
Neuroprotective Benefits
According to the book, "Nutrition for Health, Fitness, and Sport," patients with multiple sclerosis who took CLA supplements showed a slower rate of disability and a decrease in the length and severity of attacks associated with multiple sclerosis compared with individuals who didn't use CLA. CLA may have neuroprotective benefits, preserving the integrity of the myelin sheath, the protective coating surrounding nerves, which can slow the progression of the disease.
Cholesterol Reduction
High cholesterol levels may contribute to an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis, or if you already suffer from multiple sclerosis, having high cholesterol may increase the rate of progression of the disease. By reducing your intake of saturated fats and replacing them with poly- and mono-unsaturated fatty acids, such as CLA, you may be able to lower your total cholesterol levels while promoting the presence of high-density lipoprotein, or "good" cholesterol.
Leptin Levels
According to the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Center, CLA supplementation can reduce leptin levels, which primarily benefits individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes, but can also provide benefit to individuals with multiple sclerosis. Medical News Today states that blocking leptin has beneficial effects on the induction and progression of multiple sclerosis. Leptin plays an important role in the regulation of your metabolism and immune response, and can contribute to the progression of multiple sclerosis.
Other Considerations
Limited scientific data is available regarding the effect of CLA on multiple sclerosis. Most of the studies concerning CLA have been conducted on laboratory animals, with little data on its effect on multiple sclerosis in humans. Established medical treatments for multiple sclerosis, such as medications and steroids, are still the preferred method of treatment for the disease. CLA supplementation for the treatment of multiple sclerosis should only be done under the supervision of a physician and as an additional treatment in combination with traditional therapy.
References
- "Sports Supplement Encyclopedia"; Jeff Stout and Jose Antonio; 2001
- Pub Med Health; Multiple Sclerosis
- "Nutrition for Health, Fitness, and Sport"; Melvin H. Williams; 2002
- MSRC; CLA Reduces Leptin Levels; 2003
- Medical News Today; Blocking Leptin Helps Halt and Heal Multiple Sclerosis
