CLA Information |
Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)
Chemical Structure: C18H32O2
CLA is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (good fat) found in meat and dairy products. Kangaroo meat has the highest concentration of CLA, but how many times have you eaten that before? Closer to home, foods like beef, cheese and mutton contain the highest levels of CLA. However, as is most often the case, these foods contain a comparatively small amount per serving, therefore rendering them impractical as a significant natural source of CLA.
CLA has many research studies backing its use in the reduction of body fat (particularly abdominal fat) and lean muscle gain. In fact CLA has been shown to help provide an optimum cellular environment for lean body mass.
Fortunately, CLA supplements provide a convenient source of pure conjugated linoleic acid without the drawback of excess calories and saturated fat associated with consuming large amounts of red meat and cheese. This also enables the user to determine their intake of CLA whenever they see fit.
Mono and polyunsaturated fats have become increasingly recognised as vitally important to the good health of all individuals. In a healthy diet, good fats should constitute about 20% of your caloric intake as they aid literally thousands of processes within the body, including many processes that will assist in a desirable body composition.
Furthermore CLA has been shown to have significant influence upon many processes that can increase lean muscle and reduce body fat at the same time. CLA has been shown to regulate and increase energy and protein metabolism whilst also promoting the natural production of anabolic hormones such as testosterone.
Serving Sizes?
CLA will usually come in capsulated form and have daily guidelines. As it is natural there are no toxic effects and you can change your daily intake according to your dietary needs.
Complimentary Products?
This depends on your goals. If you are looking to lose fat, stacking a CLA supplement with a stimulant product will reduce bodyfat and increase your metabolism, whilst the CLA will preserve your lean muscle tissue.
There are many products that can be used with CLA to help you reach your specific goals, however Hart Nutrition recommends that CLA be a fundamental part of your diet.
