Indication: Reducing body fat mass (in obese adults)

Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, June 2004;79(6):1118-1125.

Research: One hundred and eighty healthy men and women volunteers, ages 18 to 65, with a body mass index (BMI) of 25-30 kg/m2 (indicating that they were overweight) were randomized to receive gel capsules containing either 3.4 grams CLA-free fatty acid, 3.4 grams CLA-triglycerides or equivalent amounts of olive oil (placebo). Patients were then followed for 12 months. Weight, BMI, vital signs and adverse events were recorded every three months. Body composition and blood samples were analyzed at regular intervals throughout the study, and participants were monitored continuously for any signs of serious ad­verse events.

Results: At baseline, there was no difference between the groups for either weight, BMI, body fat mass or lean body mass. After only six months of observation, individuals taking either form of CLA experienced a significant reduction in body fat mass, while those in the placebo group saw no change. Furthermore, both forms of CLA were equally efficacious in body fat mass reduction and proven safe when used for one year in healthy, yet overweight, adults.