CLA, also known as conjugated linoleic acid, is a natural polyunsaturated fat, with the majority being omega-6 fatty acid. It has 18 carbons in length with 2 double bonds in between. It can commonly be found in dairy products, meat, and vegetable oils. Specifically, these foods include butter, veal, lamb, turkey, chicken, beef (especially grass-fed), whole milk, cheeses, yogurt, eggs, safflower oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil.
It is undeniable that CLA is famous for its efficacy in weight loss and it is used by a lot of people for that purpose. However, it also has a lot of other health benefits:
- Fat-burning: studies show that CLA helps to increase lean body mass and decrease body fat mass due to its effects on lipid and energy metabolism
- Regulates blood sugar: evidence demonstrated that CLA helps to improve insulin function and reduce the risk of diabetes in patients who follow a low-carbohydrate diet plan
- Helps with allergies: research show that CLA helps to improve the ability to work out
- Increase muscle strength
MapleLife CLA works very well in obese and sedentary individuals along with a balanced diet (i.e. Mediterranean diet) and regular exercises. Studies show that CLA aids in reducing body fat compared to the placebo group, independent of metabolic rate, diet, and physical activity. The effect is more pronounced in the overweight and obese group. Hence, it is strongly recommended to use CLA in combination with regular exercises and proper diet.
