CLA Diet Review
Review At A Glance
Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), is a naturally occurring free fatty acid found mainly in meat and dairy products, in small amounts. It is now offered as a dietary supplement in more concentrated form, and is believed to help with a variety of health issues, including body fat reduction.
How Does It Work?
A Journal of Nutrition study found that approximately 3.4 grams of CLA per day is the level needed to obtain the beneficial effects of CLA on body fat. CLA been shown to increase muscle mass while reducing body fat, while potentially providing antioxidant and immunity system benefits.
Who Is It Good For?
People who are looking to turn body fat into muscle; those with immune deficiecy health concerns; possible benefits for diabetics. Not for those looking to lose many pounds quickly.
Keys: Possible Benefits
- Increases metabolic rate
- Decreases abdominal fat
- Enhances muscle growth
- Lowers insulin resistance
- Enhances immune system
Pros
- During and even post-dieting, can aid muscle growth while decreasing body fat production
- Available over the counter
- Considerable research has been conducted, with positive results
- Has few if any side effects
Cons
- Animal testing
- Not really a diet - promotes the idea of quick fixes to weight problems
- Over-hyped
- Some of the benefits can be had from a diet that includes free-range dairy and meat products
Further Thoughts
While many diets vilify fats in general, fatty acids are essential for proper health. For further scientific research on CLA, refer to the work of M.W. Pariza, Univ. of Wisconsin, Madison.
