Conjugated Linolenic Acid

Why You Need It

• Fat Loss: Helps reduce body fat by increasing the rate at which your body burns fat for fuel.
• Muscle Preservation: Unlike many weight loss aids, CLA helps protect lean muscle tissue during calorie restriction.
• Immune Function: Acts as an immune modulator, potentially helping the body fight infection more effectively.
• Metabolic Health: May improve insulin sensitivity, helping regulate blood sugar levels.

Deep Dive

CLA is structurally similar to linoleic acid (an essential omega-6 fat) but arranged differently. It functions as a metabolic regulator. By inhibiting the enzyme lipoprotein lipase, CLA prevents fatty acids from being easily deposited into fat cells. Instead, these fatty acids are directed toward muscle tissue for energy. This shift in nutrient partitioning is why it is favored by athletes looking to achieve a 'lean' look.

Natural Food Sources

The highest concentrations of CLA are found in ruminant animals (cows, sheep, goats) that graze on grass. The CLA content in grain-fed animals is significantly lower.

Top Natural Sources:

• Grass-Fed Beef (High)
• Lamb (High)
• Full-Fat Dairy (Cheese, Butter) from Grass-Fed Cows (Medium-High)
• Pasture-Raised Eggs (Low-Medium)

Supplementation

CLA supplements are derived from safflower oil. They are best used by those actively trying to lose body fat. A common dose is 3.0 to 6.0 grams daily, split into two or three doses. It is fat-soluble, so take it with a meal containing fat.