CLA Info

Basic Facts
Effects
Indications
Composition
Dosage
Side Effects/Contraindications
Instructions

BASIC FACTS

Some years ago, the discovery of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) led to a scientific sensation. It could be proven that this fatty acid derivative has especially strong anti-tumor properties. In studies, they showed to inhibit cancers such as breast cancer, malignant prostatic tumors, gastrointestinal carcinomas as well as malignant skin tumors (e.g. melanoma).

Biochemically, linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid which cannot be synthetized in the organism and therefore has to be ingested with food. CLA is a somewhat alterated derivative of linoleic acid and contained in great quantities in red meat and cheese. Moreover, CLA can also be found in chicken meat, eggs and corn germ oil.

An actual CLA deficiency is, in fact, rather difficult to prove. However, in a number of scientific investigations indications have been found that, in the long run, a diet containing only little CLA leads to an increase in the share of body fat and therefore it appears to be an important factor in the development of obesity. Due to its unique mechanisms of action, CLA has numerous effects regarding the prevention of chronic diseases and also positive influence on body fat reduction. It is also for this reason that CLA has become available as a food supplement in the meantime.

EFFECTS

CLA is a potent anti-oxidant, which also has anticarcinogenic and anticatabolic effects. Furthermore, CLA acts as a potent stimulator for the body’s immune system, a fact which seems to be responsible for the preventive properties of CLA regarding the pathogenesis, development and progression of cancer. These effects of CLA were discovered and described in numerous scientific investigations.

The intake of CLA with daily food or as a food supplement leads to a lowering of the ratio between the lean body mass and the share of body fat. Furthermore, less fat is deposited in the abdominal region, and CLA also leads to the increased formation of muscle. Physiologically, these effects are the result of an increased insulin sensitivity in the peripheral tissue so that free fatty acids and glucose become more quickly available especially to the muscles and are not stored in fatty tissue. In view of the anticatabolic effects, this property of CLA is in particular due to the fact that the substance prevents the reduction of muscle tissue.

INDICATIONS

Compared to former generations it was found out, in particular regarding the US-American population, that our daily food has become relatively deficient in CLA. This is mainly due to a change in the feeding of pasture livestock which caused the CLA content in milk and milk products to drop. Because for an optimal CLA production cows need fresh grass to feed on, which is often made impossible in view of the large-scale livestock farming that is customary today. This CLA deficiency seems to be also partly responsible for obesity to have reached epidemic proportions in the United States.
Inappropriate dietary habits as well as a deficiency in CLA in the food have far-reaching consequences for health and longevity. Because of its unique effects on the immune system and the metabolism, CLA should be an important building block in each well-balanced food supplement program. The following active properties and effects of CLA were proven in particular:

Inhibition of the growth of malignant tumors
Improvement of the function of the immune system
Increase in the insulin sensitivity of peripheral tissue
Anticatabolic effects with regard to the muscles
Reduced storage of fat
Increase of the body mass in relation to the body fat
Lowering of cholesterol and antiatherogenic effects
Antioxidative properties
Protection against osteoporosis

COMPOSITION

One capsule (softgel) contains 1000mg CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) in pure pharmaceutical quality.

DOSAGE

On account of its unique effects on the immune system and the metabolism, CLA should have a firm place in every food supplement program. In normal cases take 1 capsule three times a day at mealtimes with plenty of fluid.

SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS

CLA is non-toxic and compatible with all other pharmaceutical products and drugs. Till now, no substantial undesired side effects have been reported in connection with the intake of CLA. However, a study showed that CLA, if taken in large amounts, can cause gastrointestinal symptoms.

INSTRUCTIONS

In order to achieve its optimal effect, CLA must be regularly taken on a daily basis for an extended period of time. Individuals who are hypersensitive to any constituent of the product are advised against taking it. Pregnant and lactating women as well as persons who are under constant medical care should consult their doctor before taking the preparation.

It is generally recommended to consult a specialist before taking food supplements. If you have a pre-existing disease or are already receiving long-term drug treatment, you should use CLA only after having consulted a doctor first. If you experience any symptoms while taking CLA, you should consult a doctor and inform him or her of the intake.

This product is available at pharmacies or via Pharmatrans Inc.

For information about prices and packing sizes click here.