Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a mixture of different isomers, or chemical forms, of linoleic acid. This is an essential fatty acid, a type of fat that the body needs as much as it needs vitamins. Although it has become popular as a fat-burning supplement, it is not really known how or even whether CLA really works. The human body cannot produce CLA. No deficiencies of CLA are reported or believed to occur.

Preliminary animal and test tube research suggests that CLA might help lose body fat while retaining muscle.  CLA supplementation may improve glucose tolerance.  CLA has been found to reduce blood pressure, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and triglycerides.

CLA might reduce the risk of cancers at several sites, including breast, prostate, colorectal, lung, skin, and stomach.  CLA supplementation might limit food allergy reactions.  Prevent atherosclerosis. Those over the age of 40 who take CLA may reduce their risk of heart disease, muscle atrophy, free radical activity and obesity.

CLA is efficiently absorbed in supplement form and only low levels of CLA are needed to produce therapeutic benefits. The recommended dosage is 4 grams divided evenly with meals (for a person in the 165-200lbs range). Cancer patients and those seeking body fat reduction often take six to twelve, 500mg capsules a day.

CLA does occur in food, but it would be very difficult to get the recommended dose that way. CLA is found in very small amounts in almost every kind of meat and in slightly bigger amounts in milk and cheese. However to get the stable amount of CLA that will be beneficial, it needs to be supplemented.

The side effects of CLA are unknown, due to the limited research in humans. However, one unpublished human trial reported isolated cases of gastrointestinal upset.

Acute Overdose: None Chronic Overdose: None

CLA appears to be a safe nutritional substance. However, maximum safe dosages for young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease have not been determined.