CLA as an ideal dietary product for athletes and body-conscious people
How CLA works
CLA adapts to the body's metabolic processes and subsequently facilitates weight loss. Like L-carnitine, CLA is an insider tip among athletes who follow a low-fat diet.
Conjugated linoleic acid supports the body in breaking down fat cells - excess fat is burned off. These breakdown processes mainly take place in the fat cells of the muscle tissue. CLA thus supports the growth of lean muscle mass.
Blood sugar levels, cholesterol and the immune system
High plasma cholesterol levels and increased concentrations of triglycerides in the bloodstream (hypertriglyceridemia) are considered risk factors for cardiovascular problems. We know of two types of cholesterol that affect heart health:
HDL cholesterol (transports cholesterol away from the heart) and
LDL cholesterol (transports cholesterol to the heart).
If blood lipid levels and LDL levels are high and HDL levels are low, there is a higher risk of disease. CLA can balance out the imbalance and generate better blood lipid levels. It is also thought to have a positive, balancing effect on blood sugar levels. Medical studies are also looking at the positive effects of conjugated linoleic acid on a strong immune system.
Important sources of CLA
From our natural foods, dairy products and meat are good sources: CLA is found in appreciable amounts in chicken, lamb and beef, pork, as well as cottage cheese, cow's milk and cheddar. Vegetarians and vegans are recommended to take CLA in the form of high-quality food supplements. This is because the CLA contained as an extract from safflower and sunflower oil is of plant origin.
Dosing of CLA
There are currently no strict and uniform recommendations for the intake period and the time of supplementation of CLA. The preferred dosages in current studies range from 0.7 grams to 6.8 grams per day. The linoleic acid is taken as a cure over periods of between 8 and 12 weeks. The most common dose is 3 grams of CLA per day. Supplementation with a meal is recommended.
How CLA can support you in the best possible way
Conjugated linoleic acid CLA has a supportive effect on the path to weight loss. It is also said to help build lean muscle. Other positive effects are attributed to CLA in lowering elevated cholesterol levels, improving individual blood sugar levels and supporting the immune system.
As a dosage-dependent dietary supplement, CLA is recommended in dosages of 0.7 grams and up to 6.8 grams - an average value is 3 grams per day in the form of a high-quality supplement. CLA is taken over a period of 8 to 12 weeks.
Various studies are still being carried out to further prove the effectiveness of CLA as a dietary supplement. The basic knowledge based on theoretical findings is further supported by the use of advanced technologies. For many, CLA is seen as a kind of effective miracle weapon in the fight against excess body fat.