CLA
CLA stands for Conjugated Linoleic Acid. The only way to get enough CLA is either by eating dairy and meat products or by taking CLA supplements. It is best known to prevent fat deposits by speeding up the body’s fat metabolism, significantly reducing body fat.
Benefits
- CLA increases metabolic rate.
- Decreases abdominal fat, enhances muscle growth, lowers cholesterol and tryglycerides.
- Lowers insulin resistance, reduces food-induced allergic reactions.
- Enhances the immune system.
Risks
- Some people report feeling slightly green or nauseous after taking their CLA or isolated cases of gastrointestinal upset or loose stools. These side effects typically are redused when the product is taken with protein (i.e., with milk), and usually decrease after 2 weeks taking the supplement.
What do experts say about CLA?
A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, published in the December 2000 issue of the Journal of Nutrition found that CLA reduces fat and preserves muscle tissue. According to the research project manager, an average reduction of six pounds of body fat was found in the group that took CLA, compared to a placebo group. The 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.
Dr. Michael Pariza, who conducted research on CLA with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, reported in August 2000 to the American Chemical Society that "it doesn’t make a big fat cell get little. What it rather does is keep a little fat cell from getting big."
A separate study conducted at Purdue University in Indiana, CLA was found to improve insulin levels in about two-third of diabetic patients, and moderately reduced the blood glucose level and triglyceride levels.
Cost
Approximately $22.00 per bottle.
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