What Is Conjugated Linoleic Acid, CLA (18:2) & What Foods Can I Find It In?
Conjugated linoleic acid, CLA, 18:2, is both a trans fatty acid and a cis fatty acid.
It’s a collective term that describes different isomers of linoleic acid with conjugated double bonds.
Conjugated linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated conjugated fatty acid.
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Conjugated Linoleic Acid, Recognized As Safe
Conjugated linoleic acid, CLA, is a family of at least 28 isomers of linoleic acid found mostly in meat and dairy products derived from ruminants.
In 2008, the United States Food and Drug Administration categorized CLA as generally recognized as safe. CLA is sold as a dietary supplement based on its supposed health benefits. (source ◳)
Studies suggest that the naturally occurring form of CLA can decrease the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. (source ◳)
Conjugated linoleic acid, CLA may have beneficial effects on human health.
Believed Benefits Of CLA
Conjugated linoleic acid is known as a kind of fat-soluble substance.
It is a component of a lipid peroxide, so it is believed to have physiological activities such as a lipid reducing effect, an antitumor effect, an antioxidative effect and a cholesterol-lowering effect.
That is why CLA has attracted attention as a functional food.
Conjugated Linoleic Acid And Weight Loss
Conjugated linoleic acid has been studied for the last 15 years in connection with a reduction of body fat.
Several mechanisms have been suggested for this action, such as stimulation of fatty acid oxidation, inhibition of fat storage, and reduced triglyceride secretion.
However, there is no consensus about the most likely mechanism.
Foods You Can Find Conjugated Linoleic Acid, CLA (18:2) In
You find Conjugated Linoleic Acid, CLA (18:2) mostly in lamb, veal, and game, beef, and dairy and egg products.
Examples of food sources include
- Lamb
- Lamb Seam Fat
- Beef Fat
- Chuck Under Blade Steak
- Chuck Mock Tender Steak
Foods in our nutrition tool
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Here's our top ranked list of foods that contain Conjugated Linoleic Acid, CLA (18:2).
