About this ingredient
Ingredients
CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) is a group of naturally occurring fatty acids derived from linoleic acid. CLA is found in small amounts in foods such as meat and dairy products from ruminant animals. Commercial CLA supplements are commonly produced from vegetable oils such as safflower or sunflower oil. CLA products contain different isomers, particularly cis-9, trans-11 (c9,t11) and trans-10, cis-12 (t10,c12), and the exact ratio varies by manufacturer.
CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) refers to a group of positional and geometric isomers of linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid. CLA occurs naturally in foods, particularly beef, lamb, and dairy products, where it is produced through processes associated with ruminant animals.
Commercial CLA supplements are commonly manufactured from vegetable oils, especially safflower oil, and are available as softgels, capsules, and other nutritional formulations. Unlike ordinary linoleic acid, CLA has a specific arrangement of double bonds that gives it its distinct chemical properties.
The two CLA isomers most commonly discussed in research and supplements are cis-9, trans-11 and trans-10, cis-12. Products may contain a mixture of these isomers in different proportions, so the actual CLA composition should be checked on the product label.
CLA is frequently included in sports nutrition, body-composition, and weight-management supplement formulas. Research on CLA has produced mixed findings, and effects can vary depending on the isomer composition, dosage, and individual factors.
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take medications should consult a healthcare professional before using concentrated CLA supplements.
