supplement

CLA

Also known as: Conjugated Linoleic Acid

Chemical structure of CLA (PubChem CID 135495205)
Structure via PubChem
Half-life
24 h
Typical timing
with_meal
Food rule
with food
Default unit
g

Studied for

Overview

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) refers to a group of positional and geometric isomers of linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid. These isomers differ in the position and orientation of their double bonds. The two most common and biologically active isomers studied are _cis_-9, _trans_-11 CLA (c9,t11 CLA) and _trans_-10, _cis_-12 CLA (t10,c12 CLA). CLA is naturally found in the meat and dairy products of ruminant animals such as cattle, goats, and sheep. It is formed in the rumen through microbial fermentation of linoleic acid. While CLA is present in these food sources, the amounts can vary significantly based on the animal's diet, with grass-fed animals typically having higher levels than grain-fed animals. As a dietary supplement, CLA is typically derived from safflower or sunflower oil, which are rich in linoleic acid. These oils undergo a chemical process called isomerization to convert linoleic acid into various CLA isomers, predominantly c9,t11 CLA and t10,c12 CLA, in varying ratios. Interest in CLA as a supplement largely stems from early research suggesting its potential role in body composition, particularly by influencing fat metabolism and muscle mass. Initial studies often focused on its anti-cancer properties and later shifted towards its effects on weight management. It is primarily marketed for its purported benefits in reducing body fat, increasing lean muscle mass, and supporting overall weight loss efforts. It is available in various supplement forms, including capsules and softgels, and is often combined with other ingredients in weight management formulations. (NIH ODS, PubChem, DrugBank)

Deep dive

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Known interactions

  • Category rule: glp1 × supplement
    Note

    GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, changing how/when oral supplements absorb; rapid weight loss raises the importance of protein and micronutrients.

    Time oral supplements when nausea is lowest; prioritize protein and micronutrients; discuss with your provider.

  • Category rule: supplement × medication
    Note

    Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).

    Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.

Frequently asked

Sources referenced

["National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements (NIH ODS)", "MedlinePlus", "PubChem", "Cochrane Library", "DrugBank"]

Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.

Related compounds

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Related benefits

Other compounds studied for the same benefits as CLA.

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