Conjugated Linoleic Acid Side Effects

Conjugated linoleic acid is a nutritional supplement often used by body builders to promote muscles and strengthen them. Chemically, conjugated linoleic acid is an isomer of an essential fatty acid known as linoleic acid. Linoleic acid is an unsaturated fatty acid, belonging to the group of omega-6 fatty acids. A slight rearrangement of the molecular structure of linoleic acid, alters the chemical functions and results in the fatty acid known as cojugated linoleic acid (CLA). Unlike linoleic acid, which is found in various vegetable oils, this form of linoleic acid is primarily found in meat and dairy products.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Benefits

Conjugated linoleic acid is claimed to be beneficial for us in several ways. Studies show that conjugated linoleic acid has anti cancer properties, and that it can hinder the growth of cancerous tumors in skin, mammary and colon tissues. It does this by regulating the gene responsible for tumor suppression. This health supplement is also known to help people reduce body fat. It is believed that low levels or lack of conjugated linoleic acid signals the body to preserve fats. The presence of right amounts of this fatty acid in the body, avoids storage of excess fats and thus helps in reduction of fats. Although conjugated linoleic acid can reduce body fat, it does not have much effect on the overall body weight. Moreover, recent studies have shown that this may have certain adverse reactions on the body.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Side Effects

There are several side effects associated with conjugated linoleic acid. Small doses that come from the everyday foods, do not have any adverse effect on the body. In fact, it is necessary for the growth and promotion of body muscles. However, large quantities of linoleic acid, taken as a supplement can lead to serious health concerns. Following are some of the common side effects of CLA.

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Upset stomach
• Fatigue
• Itching
• Unexplained rash
• Hives
• Swelling
• Wheezing
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea

These were some of the common negative effects. However, these side effects are temporary and fade away with time. But it can also have serious health consequences.

Conjugated linoleic acid is known to reduce the levels of HDL cholesterol, which is beneficial for the body and commonly referred to as 'good' cholesterol. Good cholesterol is necessary for keeping the LDL or 'bad' cholesterol in control. Some forms of CLA make the body resistant to insulin. This insulin resistance can raise the level of blood sugar, causing hyperglycemia. It is also known to increase the level of the inflammatory protein, called C-reactive protein, which can cause several health problems.

Now, that you are aware of the various adverse effects, caused by excess amount of conjugated linoleic acid in the body, limit the consumption of CLA supplements, to avoid the serious medical concerns.