CLA Benefits For Weight Loss

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is the newest concept to come along in the ongoing saga of weight loss solutions. Researchers have discovered that CLA may be the specific nutrient that is responsible for many health benefits including building lean muscle mass and elevating fat loss.

CLA was first known for anti-cancer effects yet researchers have continued studying this nutrient for other benefits. What they are discovering are multiple benefits including accelerated fat loss. There is no magic cure with CLA as it alone cannot do all the work in losing weight, a change of diet is always required when losing weight.

What Is Conjugated Linoleic Acid?

CLA is comprised of several isomers (chemically similar compounds) that are derived from linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid). It occurs naturally in dairy products and in the meat of animals that chew their cud while grazing in fields (i.e., sheep and cattle). It is thought to be a key element in regulating lipid metabolism as well as modulating immunity.

CLA And Weight Loss

There is consistency with what researchers worldwide are discovering; CLA does reduce body fat but to what degree depends on several factors. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition cites results from a 2010 study conducted at the University of Wisconsin. A control group of participants were given CLA for seven months and in that time frame there were significant reductions in body fat.

CLA is marketed as an effective way to reduce body fat. There are no long-term studies completed as of yet, however L.D. Whigham conducted a study in 2004 that was published in Food and Chemical Toxicology. He found that in a one year period, 6 grams of CLA daily showed no adverse side effects in the liver, lipids or throughout the body’s natural general chemistry.

Although the research results for fat loss vary, CLA supplementation appears to be safe and certainly has the potential to help those seeking to lose body fat.
In addition, CLA may protect muscle loss in the elderly. Age-related loss of muscle mass can take its toll on an individual and unless one works out regularly to keep muscles toned, there can be some trouble down the road that includes increased risk of falls and fractures.

Other CLA Benefits

CLA is not only proven to aid in the loss of body fat, it has other benefits that have surprised researchers.

There is a correlation between CLA and the prevention of the development of type II diabetes. Conjugated linoleic acid may improve the insulin sensitivity of fat cells. In addition, CLA may work with biotin and coenzyme Q10 in order to prevent diabetes.

Strangely enough, the potent cancer-fighting conjugated linoleic acid was first identified in the cooking process of some meats (especially beef) as being known for containing cancer-causing substances. Yet, researchers have worked with CLA and lab mice to discover that CLA can protect against tumours.

The type of meat you choose to eat is important. Meat from grass-grazing livestock has half the saturated fat as that from animals fed chemically-altered grains. Far too many livestock nowadays are not feeding where they should be and this results in serious changes of “what” you are eating. Like cattle, chickens that feed in a pasture on natural grains also have less cholesterol, saturated and total fat and more importantly, 100 percent more omega-3 fats as well as CLA.
Taking CLA supplements may not be for everyone. Getting advice from a qualified health professional is advisable before taking this supplement.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has a convenient location and qualified professionals to work with you to ensure you are on the right track to losing weight safely. Call 905-918-0419 for more information.