CLA

CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) may be considered a "healthy fat" because it may help people lose body fat and prevent colon cancer. It is a trans fat that is found in dairy products and meat from certain animals. Certain forms of CLA work by decreasing fat storage and possibly increasing muscle mass. It may also be toxic to cancer cells. Possible side effects include nausea, indigestion, and heartburn.

 

What Is CLA?

CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) is a trans fat found in dairy products and meat from certain animals (such as goats, sheep, and cows). It may be a "healthy fat" and shows promise for helping people lose body fat and for preventing cancer.
 
(Click CLA Uses for more information on what it is used for.)
 

How Does CLA Work?

Some forms of CLA may affect muscle and fat cells by decreasing fat storage and possibly increasing muscle mass. Additionally, there is some evidence that the trans fat may be toxic to cancer cells. However, not all of its effects are beneficial; it may possibly increase the risk of diabetes and may increase inflammatory proteins in the body.
 

Is It Effective?

Preliminary evidence suggests that it may be beneficial for decreasing body fat and preventing colon cancer, although it is not clear if taking supplements provides the same benefits of obtaining it through a healthy and balanced diet (see Does CLA Work? for more information).
 

Dosing Information

Currently, the best dose of CLA has not been determined. More research is necessary in order to determine an appropriate dosage.
 
(Click CLA Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects

The supplement can cause several side effects, such as:
 
(Click CLA Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

It is not known if CLA interacts with any medications (see CLA Drug Interactions).
 

Is CLA Safe?

Low doses are probably safe, although high doses can cause problems. Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to drugs and supplements. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking it if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click CLA Safety for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

It is not known what exactly to expect from an overdose, or even if it is possible to take too much CLA.
 
(Click CLA Overdose for more information.)
 

Storage Methods for CLA

Refer to the label of your individual CLA product for information on how best to store it. Keep the supplement out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;