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WeightCited

CLA for Obesity

B

Cochrane meta-analysis of 18 RCTs (n=807) found CLA at 3.2 g/day reduced body fat mass by 1.33 kg over 6-12 months without significant change in body weight, suggesting lean mass preservation. A 2-year RCT (n=134) found sustained fat reduction. Effects are modest and require long-term use.

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            B

        

        

            
The Bottom Line

            
            
Cochrane meta-analysis of 18 RCTs (n=807) found CLA at 3.2 g/day reduced body fat mass by 1.33 kg over 6-12 months without significant change in body weight, suggesting lean mass preservation. A 2-year RCT (n=134) found sustained fat reduction. Effects are modest and require long-term use.

            
            
        

    











    
    

        
        

            

  
Key Statistics





            


    

        
18

        
Studies

    

    

        
807

        
Participants

    

    

        
            
            ↑
            
        
        
Positive

    

    

        B

        
Grade

    




        


        
        

        
        
        

            

  
Dosage & Usage





            
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units


            
            

                
Commonly Used Dosages

                

                    
                    

                        
general:

                        
3.2-6.4 g/day mixed isomers

                    

                    
                    

                        
bodycomposition:

                        
3.4 g/day (50:50 c9,t11:t10,c12 blend)

                    

                    
                    

                        
minimumeffective:

                        
3.2 g/day for ≥12 weeks

                    

                    
                

                
                

                    Upper limit: 6 g/day; higher doses may worsen insulin sensitivity
                

                
            

            

            

            
            

                Best taken: With meals; divide dose across 2-3 meals
            

            
        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Safety & Side Effects





            

                
                

                    
Reported Side Effects

                    
    
                        
                        
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                            ⚠
                            GI discomfort
                        
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                            ⚠
                            May worsen insulin sensitivity at high doses
                        
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                            ⚠
                            Possible HDL reduction
                        
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                            ⚠
                            Fatty liver (in some rodent studies)
                        
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Known Interactions

                    
    
                        
                        
  • 
                            ●
                            Diabetes medications (may affect insulin sensitivity)
                        
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                            ●
                            Blood thinners (theoretical)
                        
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                        Tolerable upper intake: 6 g/day; higher doses may worsen insulin sensitivity
                    

                

                
            

            

                Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
            

        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Frequently Asked Questions





            




    
    

        
            Does CLA help with Obesity?
            
        
        

            Based on 18 studies with 807 participants, there is moderate evidence from clinical studies that CLA may support Obesity management. Our evidence grade is B (Good Evidence).
        

    

    
    

        
            How much CLA should I take for Obesity?
            
        
        

            Studies have used various dosages. A commonly studied range is 3.2-6.4 g/day mixed isomers. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
        

    

    
    

        
            Are there side effects of CLA?
            
        
        

            Reported side effects may include GI discomfort, May worsen insulin sensitivity at high doses, Possible HDL reduction, Fatty liver (in some rodent studies). Most side effects are mild and dose-dependent. Consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.
        

    

    
    

        
            How strong is the evidence for CLA and Obesity?
            
        
        

            We rate the evidence as Grade B (Good Evidence). This rating is based on 18 peer-reviewed studies with 807 total participants. The overall direction of effect is positive.
        

    

    




        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Related Evidence





            

                
                
                

                
            

        

        

    


    
    












    

        FDA Disclaimer:
        These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.