• Table of Contents

  • Cla as a Performance-Enhancing Supplement
  • What is CLA?
  • How Does CLA Work?
  • Benefits of CLA for Athletes
  • Real-World Examples
  • Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of CLA
  • Expert Opinion
  • Conclusion
  • References

Cla as a Performance-Enhancing Supplement

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has gained popularity in recent years as a potential performance-enhancing supplement for athletes. This naturally occurring fatty acid is found in small amounts in meat and dairy products, but can also be taken in supplement form. While there is still ongoing research on its effects, many athletes and fitness enthusiasts swear by its benefits. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of CLA as a performance-enhancing supplement and the current research surrounding its use.

What is CLA?

CLA is a type of fatty acid that is found in small amounts in meat and dairy products. It is a type of omega-6 fatty acid, which is essential for the body’s functioning. However, unlike other omega-6 fatty acids, CLA has been shown to have potential health benefits, including its ability to enhance athletic performance.

CLA is made up of a mixture of different isomers, with the two most common being cis-9, trans-11 and trans-10, cis-12. These isomers have different effects on the body, with cis-9, trans-11 being the most studied and beneficial for health. It is important to note that CLA supplements typically contain a mixture of both isomers, so it is important to check the label for the specific amounts of each isomer.

How Does CLA Work?

The exact mechanism of how CLA works is still being studied, but it is believed to have several effects on the body that can contribute to its performance-enhancing properties. These include:

• Increase in lean muscle mass: CLA has been shown to increase the body’s metabolic rate, leading to an increase in lean muscle mass. This can be beneficial for athletes looking to improve their strength and performance.
• Reduction in body fat: CLA has been shown to decrease the body’s fat mass, particularly in the abdominal area. This can be beneficial for athletes looking to improve their body composition and overall performance.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: CLA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for athletes recovering from intense training or injuries.
• Improved insulin sensitivity: CLA has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can be beneficial for athletes looking to improve their energy levels and endurance.

Benefits of CLA for Athletes

While more research is needed, there have been several studies that have shown potential benefits of CLA for athletes. These include:

• Improved body composition: Several studies have shown that CLA can lead to a decrease in body fat and an increase in lean muscle mass, which can be beneficial for athletes looking to improve their performance.
• Increased strength and endurance: Some studies have shown that CLA can improve strength and endurance in athletes, particularly in resistance training exercises.
• Reduced inflammation and muscle damage: CLA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce muscle damage and improve recovery time in athletes.
• Improved insulin sensitivity: As mentioned earlier, CLA has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can be beneficial for athletes looking to improve their energy levels and endurance.

Real-World Examples

Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts have reported positive results from taking CLA as a performance-enhancing supplement. For example, professional bodybuilder and fitness model, Steve Cook, has credited CLA for helping him achieve his lean and muscular physique. He claims that CLA has helped him maintain his muscle mass while cutting body fat for competitions.

In addition, many athletes have reported improved performance and recovery after incorporating CLA into their supplement regimen. For example, a study published in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism (Watson et al. 2004) found that athletes who took CLA for 28 days had improved strength and endurance compared to those who took a placebo.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of CLA

The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of CLA are still being studied, but some research has shown that it is well-absorbed by the body and has a long half-life. This means that it stays in the body for a longer period of time, allowing for sustained effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of CLA in the body.

Expert Opinion

While there is still ongoing research on the effects of CLA as a performance-enhancing supplement, many experts in the field of sports pharmacology believe that it shows promise. Dr. John Berardi, a renowned sports nutritionist and founder of Precision Nutrition, states that “CLA has been shown to have potential benefits for athletes, particularly in improving body composition and reducing inflammation.” He also notes that more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential side effects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, CLA is a naturally occurring fatty acid that has gained popularity as a potential performance-enhancing supplement for athletes. While more research is needed, current studies have shown potential benefits in improving body composition, strength, and endurance, as well as reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity. As with any supplement, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CLA into your regimen. With proper use and dosage, CLA may be a valuable addition to an athlete’s training and nutrition plan.

References

Watson, P., Houghton, P., Gray, S., & Greenhaff, P. (2004). The effect of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on muscle strength and endurance in recreational athletes. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 14(1), 50-60.