Conjugated Linoleic Acid

Overview

Conjugated Linoleic Acid is a collective name for a group of modified forms of Linoleic Acid that contain double bonds [conjugation] along the 9th and 11th carbons in the Linoleic Acid molecule - there are eight known isomers (different places on the Linoleic Acid molecule where double bonds may occur), but the cis-10, trans-12 isomer is presently believed to be the most therapeutically active isomer.  Until 1999 it was thought that the cis-9, trans-11 was the most biologically active.  The type known as cis-12, trans-10 is the second most predominant isomer in the CLA group.  Unlike "true" Linoleic Acid, Conjugated Linoleic Acid does not undergo the metabolic transformations associated with Linoleic Acid that lead to the production of Arachidonic Acid.

Cardiovascular System

 CLA may help to prevent Atherosclerosis.  ^[1]

 CLA may help to prevent abnormal Blood Clotting by inhibiting platelet aggregation.  ^[2]

Immune System

 CLA may limit reactions to (Food) Allergies (due to CLA’s effects on the Immune System).  ^[3]

 CLA may inhibit the development of some forms of Cancer:  ^[4]

 CLA may inhibit the initiation, growth and of Cancer - Breast.  ^[5]

 CLA may help to prevent Cancer - Colon.  ^[6]

 CLA may help to prevent Melanoma.  ^[7]

 CLA may inhibit the further growth and of the Cancer cells involved in Cancer - Prostate.  ^[8]

 CLA may stimulate the production of Helper T-Cells (CD4 Cells). 

 CLA may stimulate the production of T-Lymphocytes.  ^[9]

Metabolism

 CLA possesses potent Antioxidants properties:  ^[10]

 The Antioxidant effects of CLA are believed to be 200% greater than those of Beta-Carotene.

 CLA may increase the body’s Basal Metabolism (BMR).  ^[11]

 CLA may help to lower elevated Blood Sugar levels (which is particularly beneficial for Diabetes Mellitus patients).  ^[12]

 CLA may lower total serum Cholesterol levels and also increases the stability of Cholesterol, causing it to become less susceptible to Oxidation:  ^[13]