CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) is a an omega 6 fatty acid that was first discovered in the early 80s that continues to be studied for its diverse applications in promoting good health. CLA is made through a process that converts the linoleic acid derived from safflower oil to conjugated linoleic acid. CLA is a naturally occurring fatty acid found in our diet and since the body cannot produce this fatty acid it can be obtained only through the diet. CLA is best known as an effective product for reducing body fat and increasing lean muscle mass resulting in an improved body shape. Following digestion, CLA is absorbed and metabolized by the body, as are all types of oils. Studies in animals and humans have shown that if the amount of CLA in the diet is increased this will result in an increase in the CLA levels in the body tissues. CLA helps reduce body fat while increasing lean muscle mass and may help you lose inches in your abdominal area. CLA can help you achieve your diet goals in two ways: first, CLA reduces the amount of fat you store after eating. Second, CLA decreases the amount of fat stored in your body. The result is as you diet; you may drop a clothes size or two without the dreaded yo-yo effect of losing and regaining weight. This is because you’re reducing body fat, not water which is a more permanent and healthy loss. Studies have shown that CLA inhibits lipoprotein lipase, an enzyme that breaks down fat from our diet so that it can be absorbed and stored in the body. By suppressing this enzyme, CLA helps reduce the amount of fat deposited and stored throughout the body. To summarize, studies have shown that CLA reduces body fat in four ways: • By decreasing the amount of fat that is stored after eating • By increasing the rate of fat breakdown in fat cells • By increasing the rate of fat burning • By decreasing the total number of fat cells

CLA works to reduce body fat by preventing fat accumulation in fat cells. Fat normally enters the fat cell through a "door" that is controlled by an enzyme. By acting on this enzyme, CLA keeps the "door" locked. When the "door" is locked, fat cannot enter the cells thereby not allowing the amount of fat to increase in the cells. The less fat that is present in the cells, the smaller and less mature they become, this helps to reduce the level of fat in the body. The increased breakdown of fat helps to fuel and preserve muscle mass, which in turn increases lean muscle mass and results in weight loss.

The cancer fighting effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has been demonstrated proven through numerous published studies clearly demonstrating CLA’s ability to inhibit cancer growth in a variety of cancers. According to the Journal of Nutrition (December 1999), besides the nutrient’s anti-cancer benefits, it also confers protection against atherosclerosis. Its ability to enhance insulin sensitivity is also cause for hope for those concerned about adult onset diabetes.

Pariza MW, Park Y, Cook ME. Mechanisms of action of conjugated linoleic acid: evidence and speculation. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 2000 Jan; 223(1): 8-13.

Park Y, Albright KJ, Liu W, Storkson JM, Cook ME, Pariza MW. Effect of conjugated linoleic acid on body composition in mice. Lipids 1997 Aug;32(8):853-8

Yamasaki M, Mansho K, Mishima H, Kasai M, Sugano M, Tachibana H, Yamada K. Dietary effect of conjugated linoleic acid on lipid levels in white adipose tissue of Sprague-Dawley rats. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 1999 Jun;63(6):1104-6.

1. What is an effective amount of CLA? To achieve optimal benefits from CLA, it is best to consume 3g per day in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise. To reach the optimal daily dosage of CLA, one can supplement the diet with one CLAPure softgel with each meal.

2. Is CLA safe and are there any side effects? CLA is safe. No adverse side effects have been observed with the recommended dose. Used as part of a healthy lifestyle, CLA can effectively aid in reducing fat and building lean muscle mass. Ultimate Nutrition’s CLAPure CLA does not contain any natural or artificial stimulants. In addition, CLAPure CLA has many other equally important health benefits make it a sound supplement choice for better overall health.

Do not take chitosan and CLA together. The chitosan will absorb the CLA and prevent it from getting into the bloodstream.