Myoleptin
Also known as: CLA, conjugated linoleic acid, Myoleptin, Conjugated Linoleic Acid
Overview
Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) is a naturally occurring omega-6 fatty acid found in ruminant meat and dairy products. Myoleptin is a branded supplement ingredient primarily composed of CLA, specifically the cis-9, trans-11 and trans-10, cis-12 isomers. It is marketed as a fatty acid supplement for weight management, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic health purposes. CLA is known for its potential to influence lipid metabolism, inflammation, and adipokine levels like leptin. While research on CLA is moderate, with multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, the results are often mixed, and observed effect sizes are generally small. It is primarily used for its purported effects on fat reduction and metabolic modulation.
Benefits
CLA supplementation has been extensively studied for its effects on various health markers, though benefits are often modest and inconsistent. Meta-analyses indicate no significant dose- or duration-dependent changes in inflammatory cytokines (CRP, IL-6, TNF-α) or adipokines (leptin, adiponectin), suggesting limited impact on systemic inflammation or leptin levels. Effects on lipid profiles are also inconsistent; some meta-analyses report modest improvements in triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, but with significant heterogeneity and small effect sizes. In specific populations, such as cancer patients, CLA may reduce markers of angiogenesis and tumor invasion (MMP-2, MMP-9), suggesting potential anti-cancer properties, though these findings are preliminary and require further clinical validation. Animal and small human studies also suggest CLA might modulate immune responses and reduce hypersensitivity. Overall, the clinical significance of CLA's benefits is generally small or non-significant, with no clear dose-response relationship observed in many studies.
How it works
CLA primarily exerts its effects by modulating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), a nuclear receptor that plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism and adipocyte differentiation. This interaction influences how the body stores and metabolizes fat. Additionally, CLA is known to inhibit angiogenesis by reducing the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9), which are involved in the formation of new blood vessels and tissue remodeling. Through these mechanisms, CLA interacts with immune, metabolic, and potentially cancer-related pathways. CLA is absorbed as a fatty acid, and its bioavailability is generally good, depending on the specific isomer composition and formulation.
Side effects
CLA is generally considered safe at typical supplement doses of approximately 3 grams per day, but some concerns exist. Common side effects, affecting more than 5% of users, include minor gastrointestinal symptoms such as upset stomach. Less common side effects (1-5%) may include fatigue and mild headache. Rare side effects (<1%) have been reported in case studies, including acute hepatitis, severe migraine aura, and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome; however, a definitive causal link to CLA supplementation is not firmly established for these severe events. CLA may interact with lipid-lowering and diabetes medications due to its effects on lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Caution is advised for individuals with cardiovascular disease or diabetes, as CLA may potentially increase lipid peroxidation and worsen insulin resistance. Data on its safety in pregnant or lactating women, children, and individuals with chronic diseases are limited.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of CLA, as observed in most clinical trials, is approximately 3 grams per day. Optimal dosage ranges commonly studied are between 3 and 6 grams per day; higher doses are not well established and may increase the likelihood of side effects. The maximum safe dose for CLA is not clearly defined. It is generally recommended to take CLA with meals to improve absorption, as its absorption as a fatty acid is enhanced in the presence of dietary fat. While isomer-specific formulations (cis-9, trans-11 and trans-10, cis-12) exist, evidence for differential effects based on isomer composition is limited. No specific cofactors are required for CLA absorption or efficacy.
FAQs
Does CLA reduce body fat?
Evidence from human studies shows modest or no significant benefits for body fat reduction, with inconsistent results across trials.
Is CLA safe for long-term use?
CLA is generally considered safe for short-term use, but long-term safety data are limited, and some metabolic concerns exist.
Can CLA improve inflammation?
Meta-analyses indicate no significant effect of CLA on systemic inflammatory markers in humans.
Are there risks for individuals with diabetes?
CLA may potentially worsen insulin sensitivity, so individuals with diabetes should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional.
When is the best time to take CLA?
It is generally recommended to take CLA with meals to enhance its absorption.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2023.1092077/full – This high-quality meta-analysis found no significant effect of CLA supplementation on inflammatory cytokines (CRP, IL-6, TNF-α) or adipokines, and no clear dose-response relationship, despite heterogeneity in study designs.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9682566/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis reported modest and inconsistent effects of CLA on lipid profiles, with significant heterogeneity among studies and no clear dose-response, suggesting limited overall impact.
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/conjugated-linoleic-acid – This review summarizes clinical and case reports on CLA, highlighting common minor gastrointestinal side effects and rare but serious adverse events like hepatotoxicity and neurological issues, emphasizing the need for caution.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7401241/ – This review, incorporating clinical trial data, suggests CLA may reduce markers of angiogenesis (MMP-2, MMP-9, VEGF) in cancer patients, indicating potential anti-cancer properties, though findings are preliminary and require larger trials.
Supplements Containing Myoleptin
CLA Myoleptin 1500
MET-Rx
Myo-Leptin 1000 mg CLA
Vitamin World
Myo-Leptin 1000 mg CLA
Vitamin World
Myo-Leptin Mega Strength CLA 1500 mg
Vitamin World
Myoleptin CLA 1000 With Raspberry Ketones
Vitamin World
Super Strength CLA Conjugated Linoleic Acid
Puritan's Pride
Fireball Inferno-CLA
Precision Engineered