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Conjugated linoleic acid
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025
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Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a naturally occurring product found primarily in beef, lamb, and dairy products. CLA is an isomer of linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid with double bonds of 10 and 12 or 9 and 11 carbon atoms. Researchers speculate that because CLA can be incorporated into cell membranes, it may influence the responses of cellular hormones, which may inhibit hormones with catabolic effects and thus support anabolism.
[ Main functions
- Increases lean mass.
- Reduces fat mass.
- It is a powerful antioxidant.
Research results
Most studies using SLK have been conducted in animals. Miller et al. fed SLK to chickens, rats, and mice prior to endotoxin administration to induce weight loss and reduce protein synthesis. After endotoxin administration, animals fed SLK maintained or regained weight faster than animals that did not receive SLK. Feeding SLK also resulted in increased nitrogen utilization and increased albumin levels. SLK promotes muscle protein retention. Novice male bodybuilders who took 7.2 grams of SLK per day and trained for 6 weeks reportedly increased muscle mass more than bodybuilders given a placebo. The researchers concluded that SLK acts as a mild anabolic steroid.
Data from another unpublished study, discussed in Environmental Nutrition, show that Norwegian athletes given 1.8 g of SLC for 3 months had a 20% reduction in body fat mass compared to a placebo group.
Mice fed SLK showed a 57% and 60% decrease in fat accumulation and a 14% increase in lean muscle mass compared to controls. The researchers concluded that the effect of SLK on body composition was likely due to a reduction in body fat and an increase in lipolysis in adipocytes, possibly related to increased fatty acid oxidation. This study provides a possible mechanism for the effect of SLK on body fat.
Recommendations
There are no reports of any adverse reactions resulting from the consumption of SLK supplements. However, most of the studies have been conducted on animals. The use of SLK as an ergogenic aid justifies further well-controlled studies in humans.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Conjugated linoleic acid" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.