Is a CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) supplement recommended for dietary purposes?

Question
I have heard a few stories from some friends who have currently been taking CLA supplements to aid in weight loss.  According to some internet articles, apparently CLA is a free fatty acid found mainly in meat and dairy products, which can build muscle, and reduce body fat.

My question is are there any side effects or potential future harm that may result from taking this supplement?  I would appreciate it if you could help me out with this question or point me in the right direction.  Although I understand that a healthy diet along with a proper exercise program will help, I'm just trying to see if there is anything I can use to speed up the process (I do work out about 3-4 times a week with weights and some cardio exercises).

Thanks.

Answer
Tom,

While some studies suggest that CLA may help with fat loss, there is still much research to be done before anyone can suggest that CLA is truly SAFE and effective.

Good studies on humans are lacking.  One study suggested that CLA supplements may increase levels of Lipoprotein(a) which is a risk factor for heart disease.  Think of Lipoprotein(a) as the really bad part of LDL Cholesterol - LDL is the "bad cholesterol".  Another study suggests that CLA supplements may increase the effect of the metabolic syndrome (also known as insulin resistance or pre-diabetes).  Another study showed that a specific isomer (trans-10, cis-12) of CLA "prevents human fat cells from taking up glucose and fatty acids, which could increase blood sugar and lipids and as a result increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease".

The bottom line: CLA should not be used long-term and you need to discuss the use of CLA with your doctor to see if there are any reasons why you should not take CLA and to see what a good definition of "long-term" is for you.

Lastly;  Buyer Beware.  Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA - the FDA is prohibited by law to regulate dietary supplements.  (The dietary supplement industry throws millions and millions of dollars at politicians through it's lobbyists.)  There is no guarantee that what is printed on the label is what is actually inside the bottle.  Also, a dietary supplement does not have to be proven safe or effective before it can be sold to the public and the government cannot try to remove a dietary supplement until after it has been shown to be harmful to people who have consumed the supplement.

Best wishes.

Todd

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