Evidence supporting the use of: Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
For the health condition: Fat Metabolism (poor)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a group of fatty acid isomers found naturally in meat and dairy products from ruminant animals. Its use to support fat metabolism is primarily justified by scientific inquiry rather than traditional medicine. Over the past few decades, numerous animal and human studies have explored CLA’s potential role in reducing body fat and improving body composition. Mechanistically, CLA is proposed to influence enzymes involved in fat storage and oxidation, such as lipoprotein lipase and carnitine palmitoyltransferase. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in humans have examined CLA supplementation and its impact on fat mass. Some studies report modest reductions in body fat, particularly when CLA is used for several months, but the results are inconsistent and often show only small effects. Meta-analyses suggest that the average reduction in body fat is modest (typically less than 1 kg), and the clinical relevance remains uncertain. Additionally, some trials report adverse effects, including gastrointestinal discomfort and concerns about insulin resistance or lipid profiles with long-term use. Overall, while there is some scientific evidence supporting a minor effect of CLA on fat metabolism, the effect is small and not robustly reproducible, leading to a relatively low evidence score. The use of CLA for fat metabolism should be approached cautiously, and it should not be considered a primary intervention for weight or fat reduction.

More about conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
More about Fat Metabolism (poor)

Products containing conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.