Thursday, January 24, 2013

CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid)

CLA makes energy out of sugar, rather than it being stored as fat ...

CLA is an essential fatty acid.  This means that CLA must be taken in through the diet because the body has no ability to produce it through the conversion of other fatty substances.  Changes in commercial animal raising practices have drastically decreased the amount of CLA that is available in milk and meat products. CLA is responsible for moving dietary fats into cells.  It also moves glucose (sugar) into cells so that it can be used to make energy, rather than being stored as fat.

It also enhances the immune system and is a potent antioxidant, although its exact mechanism for these functions is not fully understood. 

CLA has gained popularity for its use in weight loss.  It decreases body fat, improves muscle tone and increases lean muscle mass.  It also increases exercise tolerance or, the length of time that one can exercise.

CLA can be purchased in soft gel capsules.  The supplements vary in price depending on the amount of CLA that is available in each capsule.  Some companies have patented processes that increase the yield of CLA from their chosen source, usually vegetable oil.

Food Sources: All meat and dairy products, vegetable oils

Deficiency Symptoms: Weight Gain

Optimum Dosage: 1000 - 3000mg daily with meals. (Clinical doses may be higher as recommended by your practitioner).

Works Well With: Other essential fatty acids, metabolism boosters. 

Important Information: CLA is best absorbed with food. Those with an inability to absorb fats should take an enzyme complex to facilitate the intake of CLA. 

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