Fats and oils

Conjugated linoleic acid

Also called: CLA

A type of fat found in meat and dairy.

Why people take it
Fat loss.
What the evidence says
Tiny fat loss at best.
How it is usually taken
Usually 3 to 6 g a day.
Be careful
Stomach upset; may worsen insulin resistance.
Medicines it can interact with
May add to blood thinners; may raise sugar.

Other fats and oils

Krill oilCod liver oilAlgal oilFlaxseed oilMCT oilPhosphatidylserineLecithinBlack currant seed oilBorage oilOmega-7Plant sterolsPolicosanolOmega-3 for kids

Common questions

What is Conjugated linoleic acid?

A type of fat found in meat and dairy.

Why do people take Conjugated linoleic acid?

Fat loss.

Does Conjugated linoleic acid work?

Tiny fat loss at best.

How much Conjugated linoleic acid do people take?

Usually 3 to 6 g a day.

Is Conjugated linoleic acid safe?

Stomach upset; may worsen insulin resistance.

Does Conjugated linoleic acid interact with medicines?

May add to blood thinners; may raise sugar.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.