Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)

• 
• 
• 

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), is  a naturally occurring  free  fatty  acid found mainly in meat and dairy products. 

Efficacy and Nutritional components

Protection against cancer: Most of the evidence investigating the effects of CLAs on breast as well as skin, liver  and colon cancers has, Although clinical  studies  are limited,  recent  work has found  that a  low  risk of breast cancer is associated  with high intakes of CLAs, high consumption of cheese and high blood levels of CLAs.

Diabetes: The  incidence  of  type  II  diabetes  (the  type  of  diabe tes normally  associated  with  over weight)  in  Europe   is  incre asing dramatically. T here  is  some  evidence  that CLAs have the  abili ty  to normalise  glucose  metabolism.  Although  the  resea rchis  far from conclusive, further work is encouraged.Body composition: CLAs have  been shown to alter body  composition in growing  mice,  causing an  increase in energy  expended, increased  body muscle  and reduced body  fat. Similar  effects  in humans have not  been demonstrated and much more work needs to be carried out.