What Is CLA?
Similar to most supplements on the market, CLA supplements can be found in every day food items. However, when taken in supplement form, it’s important to know how to manage the timing of your supplement. This is why we are discussing when to take CLA supplements. Proper timing can make all the difference in the world.
Conjugated linoleic acid or CLA, is a mixture of different types of isomers of linoleic acid. These are primarily position and geometric isomers and can be found in dairy and meat products. CLA is a slightly different form of linoleic acid. It is an omega-6 fatty acid and extremely important for our health. CLA isn’t the most common supplement on the market. Some people have heard about it, but most do not know much about it. CLA has a long list of benefits for all different types of athletes and stands out from the crowd due to its anti-cancer efficacy. Because CLA is most commonly derived from meat and dairy products, it can be tough to get the proper amounts for our bodies. Some people don’t eat either of these foods and most don’t consume enough. It’s basically impossible to get all of the CLA your body needs naturally through your diet alone. You would need to consume 500 grams of mostly saturated fat each day to get the proper amounts. This is where supplements come in handy!
When To Take CLA
In order for your body to get the best possible results from CLA supplements, it is best to take them before or during your meals. The recommended dosage is about 3,000 milligrams of CLA.
Benefits of CLA
Conjugated linoleic acid is a potent anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogen, and anti-catabolite. It’s also a powerful immune system booster! The most common benefits and uses for CLA are…
- Powerful fat burner
- Helps build and retain lean muscle
- Fights cancer
- Increases metabolic rate
- Lowers cholesterol and triglycerides
- Lowers resistance to insulin
- Reduces allergic reactions to foods
- Enhances immune system
- Improves lean mass to body fat ratio
- Decreases fat deposition
Risks of CLA
There aren’t too many risks when it comes to taking CLA supplements, but it’s important to take them into consideration before beginning your consumption. The risks for CLA are…
- Negative effect on blood sugar levels
- Affects body’s natural ability to handle insulin
- Decreases amount of body’s “helpful” cholesterol (HDL)
- Queasiness
- Digestive issues
- Diabetics should avoid CLA unless speaking to doctor first
Top Brands of CLA
- aSquared Nutrition
- Nutrition Plus
- NatureWise
- BaeFit
- 2Healthy
- Muscle Pharm
- Natures Design
- Sports Research
CLA can be a very beneficial supplement for people of all ages. If you are planning on supplementing your diet, remember to note when to take CLA.
