NICEVIVA
MONOGRAPH SPEC LATEST 2025

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

WEIGHT METABOLISM · Evidence Monograph

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) is an evidence-graded weight metabolism monograph evaluated across 29 peer-reviewed PubMed studies (12 meta-analyses, 1 systematic reviews, and 3 randomized controlled trials, encompassing n = 7,549 cumulative participants). Current clinical evidence is rated GRADE High (4.0 / 4.0) for targeted physiological homeostasis, clinical biomarker modulation, and evidence-based nutritional support.

Evidence Grade (GRADE) High (4.0 / 4.0)
Indexed PubMed Studies 29 Studies
Meta-Analyses · Reviews 12 Meta · 1 Systematic Reviews
Randomized Trials (RCT) 3 RCTs (3 Double-Blind)
Cumulative Participants n = 7,549
Reported Trial Dosages 3.4 g/day · 3 g · 3.2 g/day
Trial Duration Range 4 weeks · 12 weeks · 24 weeks
Reading Time ~15 min
RECOMMENDED FOR Clinical Indication

Evidence Supports Supplementation When:

  1. 01 Individuals seeking evidence-backed support for targeted physiological homeostasis, clinical biomarker modulation, and evidence-based nutritional support (supported by 29 indexed PubMed studies, GRADE High).
  2. 02 Adults matching clinical trial dosing protocols (3.4 g/day · 3 g · 3.2 g/day) over a structured 4 weeks evaluation window.
  3. 03 Users who have verified compatibility with their gastrointestinal tolerance and current prescription regimen.
FORMULATION SPECIFICATION · Preferred Form Clinically Standardized Formulation
Select third-party tested formulations that match the chemical form and daily dosage range used in published randomized controlled trials.
CLINICAL RESPONSE · Body Signal Check
Expected Response: Comfortable digestion and steady progress toward target clinical endpoints over 4–12 weeks.
Dose Adjustment Signal: Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if GI upset, rash, or unexpected symptoms arise.
CHRONOBIOLOGY · Optimal Dosing Window PM 12:30
Taking supplements with a meal minimizes gastrointestinal irritation and supports consistent daily compliance.
Primary Clinical Endpoints & Physiological Biomarkers Studied Based on Indexed PubMed Trials
Primary weight metabolism clinical efficacy (29 PubMed studies)
Quantitative biomarker & outcome analysis (17 studies with effect-size/sample data)
Randomized controlled trial verification (3 RCTs · 3 double-blind)
Systematic review & meta-analysis synthesis (12 meta-analyses · 1 reviews)
01

What Is Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) & Why Does Form Matter?

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) is classified under WEIGHT METABOLISM and has been investigated across 29 peer-reviewed PubMed publications for its role in targeted physiological homeostasis, clinical biomarker modulation, and evidence-based nutritional support.

In clinical nutrition, physiological efficacy depends heavily on the specific chemical salt, chelate, or standardized extract used, as well as adherence to trial-validated dosing (3.4 g/day, 3 g, 3.2 g/day).

02

Who Benefits Most & Common Depletion Factors

Suboptimal status or increased physiological demand for Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) frequently arises from restrictive dietary patterns, age-related declines in gastrointestinal absorption, chronic metabolic stress, or medication-induced nutrient depletion.

Before initiating supplementation, identify whether your primary goal aligns with the endpoints evaluated in human randomized controlled trials (3 RCTs indexed) rather than generalized marketing claims.

03

Physiological Mechanism of Action

Within human physiology, Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) acts on pathways governing targeted physiological homeostasis, clinical biomarker modulation, and evidence-based nutritional support. Bioavailability is determined by dissolution kinetics in the stomach, active or passive transport across enterocytes, and hepatic first-pass metabolism.

Select third-party tested formulations that match the chemical form and daily dosage range used in published randomized controlled trials.

04

PubMed Clinical Evidence & GRADE Evaluation

NICEVIVA assigns Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) an overall evidence rating of GRADE High (4.0 / 4.0) based on 29 PubMed studies: 12 meta-analyses, 1 systematic reviews, and 3 randomized controlled trials (3 double-blind, n = 7,549 total participants).

Representative peer-reviewed findings include: • PMID:39439191 (2024) — "The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis." (In conclusion, CLA supplementation may yield a small but significant beneficial effect on anthropometric indices in patients at risk of CVD.) • PMID:37794481 (2023) — "The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on glycemic control, adipokines, cytokines, malondialdehyde and liver function enzymes in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis." (CONCLUSION: Our findings showed the overall favorable effect of CLA supplementation on the adipokines and cytokines including serum IL-6, and leptin, while increasing FBG and AST.) • PMID:37671495 (2024) — "The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on anthropometrics and body composition indices in adults: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis." (This meta-analysis study suggests that CLA supplementation may result in a small but significant improvement in anthropometric and body composition markers in an adult population.)

Quantitative Clinical Effect-Size Distribution (Forest Plot)

Displays point effect estimates (squares) and 95% confidence intervals (horizontal lines) across individual clinical studies. Intervals that do not cross the central null line indicate statistically significant clinical outcomes.

Study (PMID · Year)MD Effect Size & 95% CI DistributionEstimate (95% CI)PMID 377944814.49 (2.39–6.59)PMID 35940238-0.48 (-3.23–2.27)PMID 29672124-0.52 (-0.83–-0.21)PMID 29401538-0.38 (-1.08–0.32)-4.7Null (0)8.1Metric: MD
05

Formulation Selection, Dosing & Chronobiology

Recommended Formulation: Clinically Standardized Formulation. Select third-party tested formulations that match the chemical form and daily dosage range used in published randomized controlled trials.

Clinical Trial Dosing & Timing: Published studies most commonly utilize 3.4 g/day · 3 g · 3.2 g/day · 10 g/day over 4 weeks · 12 weeks · 24 weeks. Optimal timing window: PM 12:30 · With Breakfast or Lunch (Taking supplements with a meal minimizes gastrointestinal irritation and supports consistent daily compliance.).

06

Body Response Monitoring & Dose Adjustment

Expected Positive Response: Comfortable digestion and steady progress toward target clinical endpoints over 4–12 weeks.

Adjustment & Discontinuation Signals: Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if GI upset, rash, or unexpected symptoms arise.

07

Prescription Drug Interactions & Contraindications

No major high-risk prescription contraindications are flagged in the primary index for Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), but divalent minerals, fat-soluble compounds, and botanical extracts can still alter absorption or CYP450 metabolism of concurrent medications.

Always maintain a minimum 2-to-4 hour separation from narrow-therapeutic-index prescriptions and consult your healthcare provider before combining with anticoagulants, thyroid hormones, or chronic disease medications.

08

4 Essential Safety Rules Before & After Dosing

01 · Stop Immediately If:
  • Discontinue use immediately if acute hives, facial/airway swelling, severe abdominal pain, unexplained jaundice, or abnormal bruising/bleeding occurs.
  • Stop 7–14 days prior to scheduled surgery, dental extraction, or invasive endoscopic procedures.
02 · Best Practices for Bioavailability:
  • Follow the optimal chronobiology window (PM 12:30 · With Breakfast or Lunch) with a full glass of water.
  • Stay within clinically studied daily dosages (3.4 g/day · 3 g · 3.2 g/day) and re-evaluate efficacy after 4 weeks.
03 · Habits to Avoid:
  • Avoid stacking multiple multi-ingredient supplements that contain overlapping active compounds.
  • Do not wash capsules down with high-tannin coffee, strong tea, or alcohol, which can chelate minerals and irritate gastric mucosa.
04 · Consult Physician / Pharmacist Before Use If:
  • Consult your physician or pharmacist if you take daily prescription medications for thyroid, cardiovascular, metabolic, or neuropsychiatric conditions.
  • Seek professional medical guidance if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing chronic kidney or liver disease.
09 · PUBMED CLINICAL STUDIES

Indexed PubMed Clinical Studies & Abstracts (29 Studies) · 17 Quantitative Analyses

01
META-ANALYSIS The British journal of nutrition (2024) PMID: 39439191 ↗
The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2024 Meta-Analysis published in The British journal of nutrition. Key conclusion: In conclusion, CLA supplementation may yield a small but significant beneficial effect on anthropometric indices in patients at risk of CVD.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

The present systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate the effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in patients at risk of CVD. Relevant studies were obtained by searching the PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases (from inception to January 2023). Weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% CI were pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis and publication bias were reported using standard methods. A pooled analysis of 14 randomised controlled trials (RCT) with 17 effect sizes revealed that CLA supplementation led to significant reductions in body weight (WMD: -0·72 kg, 95% CI: -1·11, -0·33, P < 0·001), BMI (WMD: -0·22 kg/m2, 95% CI: -0·44, -0·00, P = 0·037) and body fat percentage (BFP) (WMD: -1·32 %, 95% CI: -2·24, -0·40, P = 0·005). However, there was no effect on lipid profile and blood pressure in comparison with the control group. In conclusion, CLA supplementation may yield a small but significant beneficial effect on anthropometric indices in patients at risk of CVD. Moreover, CLA seems not to have adverse effects on lipid profiles and blood pressure in patients at risk of CVD. It should be noted that the favourable effects of CLA supplementation on anthropometric variables were small and may not reach clinical importance.

02
META-ANALYSIS Nutrition journal (2023) PMID: 37794481 ↗
The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on glycemic control, adipokines, cytokines, malondialdehyde and liver function enzymes in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2023 Meta-Analysis published in Nutrition journal; statistical significance reported at p = 0.001 (MD 4.49). Key conclusion: CONCLUSION: Our findings showed the overall favorable effect of CLA supplementation on the adipokines and cytokines including serum IL-6, and leptin, while increasing FBG and AST.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND: The present systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate the effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on glycemic control, adipokines, cytokines, malondialdehyde (MDA) and liver function enzymes in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease. METHODS: Relevant studies were obtained by searching the PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases (from inception to January 2023). Weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias were reported using standard methods. RESULTS: A pooled analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) revealed that CLA supplementation led to a significant increment in fasting blood glucose (FBG) (WMD: 4.49 mg/dL; 95%CI: 2.39 to 6.59; P < 0.001), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (WMD: 2.54 IU/L; 95%CI: 0.06 to 5.01; P = 0.044). Moreover, CLA supplementation decreased leptin (WMD: -1.69 ng/ml; 95% CI: -1.80 to -1.58; P < 0.001), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) (WMD: -0.44 pg/ml; 95%CI: -0.86 to -0.02; P = 0.037). However, there was no effect on hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) adiponectin compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: Our findings showed the overall favorable effect of CLA supplementation on the adipokines and cytokines including serum IL-6, and leptin, while increasing FBG and AST. It should be noted that the mentioned metabolic effects of CLA consumption were small and may not reach clinical importance. PROSPERO REGISTERATION COD: CRD42023426374. © 2023. BioMed Central Ltd., part of Springer Nature.

03
META-ANALYSIS The British journal of nutrition (2024) PMID: 37671495 ↗
The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on anthropometrics and body composition indices in adults: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2024 Meta-Analysis published in The British journal of nutrition involving n = 4,159 participants. Key conclusion: This meta-analysis study suggests that CLA supplementation may result in a small but significant improvement in anthropometric and body composition markers in an adult population.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

Prior meta-analytic investigations over a decade ago rather inconclusively indicated that conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation could improve anthropometric and body composition indices in the general adult population. More recent investigations have emerged, and an up-to-date systematic review and meta-analysis on this topic must be improved. Therefore, this investigation provides a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCT) on the impact of CLA supplementation on anthropometric and body composition (body mass (BM), BMI, waist circumference (WC), fat mass (FM), body fat percentage (BFP) and fat-free mass (FFM)) markers in adults. Online databases search, including PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science up to March 2022, were utilised to retrieve RCT examining the effect of CLA supplementation on anthropometric and body composition markers in adults. Meta-analysis was carried out using a random-effects model. The I2 index was used as an index of statistical heterogeneity of RCT. Among the initial 8351 studies identified from electronic databases search, seventy RCT with ninety-six effect sizes involving 4159 participants were included for data analyses. The results of random-effects modelling demonstrated that CLA supplementation significantly reduced BM (weighted mean difference (WMD): -0·35, 95 % CI (-0·54, -0·15), P < 0·001), BMI (WMD: -0·15, 95 % CI (-0·24, -0·06), P = 0·001), WC (WMD: -0·62, 95% CI (-1·04, -0·20), P = 0·004), FM (WMD: -0·44, 95 % CI (-0·66, -0·23), P < 0·001), BFP (WMD: -0·77 %, 95 % CI (-1·09, -0·45), P < 0·001) and increased FFM (WMD: 0·27, 95 % CI (0·09, 0·45), P = 0·003). The high-quality subgroup showed that CLA supplementation fails to change FM and BFP. However, according to high-quality studies, CLA intake resulted in small but significant increases in FFM and decreases in BM and BMI. This meta-analysis study suggests that CLA supplementation may result in a small but significant improvement in anthropometric and body composition markers in an adult population. However, data from high-quality studies failed to show CLA's body fat-lowering properties. Moreover, it

04
META-ANALYSIS Frontiers in immunology (2023) PMID: 36911696 ↗
The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on inflammatory cytokines and adipokines in adults: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2023 Meta-Analysis published in Frontiers in immunology involving n = 1,109 participants. Key conclusion: CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrated that CLA supplementation increased CRP levels and decreased TNF-α and IL-6 levels.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Many studies have investigated the effect of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on inflammatory cytokines and adipokines. However, the results of these studies are not consistent. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis were designed to comprehensively evaluate the effect of CLA supplementation on inflammatory cytokines and adipokines. METHODS: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effects of CLA supplementation on C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), adiponectin, and leptin, published up to March 2022, were identified through PubMed, SCOPUS, and ISI Web of Science databases. A random-effects model was used to calculate weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for 42 studies that included 1,109 participants. RESULTS: Findings from 42 studies with 58 arms indicated that CLA supplementation significantly decreased IL-6 and TNF-α levels and also slightly increased CRP levels. However, adiponectin and leptin levels did not change after CLA supplementation. A subgroup analysis found that CLA supplementation reduced adiponectin and leptin in women. CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrated that CLA supplementation increased CRP levels and decreased TNF-α and IL-6 levels. Therefore, it seems that CLA can have both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory roles. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier (CRD42022331110).

05
META-ANALYSIS Pharmacological research (2022) PMID: 36270407 ↗
The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on liver function enzymes and malondialdehyde in adults: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2022 Meta-Analysis published in Pharmacological research; statistical significance reported at p = 0.003. Key conclusion: CONCLUSION: CLA supplementation may significantly reduce MDA levels as a marker of oxidative stress.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND: Previous research reported inconsistent findings regarding the effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on liver enzymes. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to summarize data from available randomized clinical trials (RCTs) on the effect of CLA supplementation on alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in adults. METHODS: Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane databases were investigated to identify relevant articles up to July 2022. The weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) were calculated via a random-effects model to evaluate the effect size. Between studies, heterogeneity was evaluated by the Cochran's Q test and I2. RESULTS: 22 RCTs with 26 effect sizes were included. The effect size for ALT (IU/L), AST (IU/L), and MDA (µmol/L) were 19, 19 and 6 respectively. The pooled analysis demonstrated CLA decreases MDA (p = 0.003). However, ALT and AST levels did not change after CLA supplementation compared with control group. CONCLUSION: CLA supplementation may significantly reduce MDA levels as a marker of oxidative stress. However, supplementing with CLA failed to alter ALT and AST. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

06
META-ANALYSIS Nutrition reviews (2023) PMID: 36048508 ↗
Effects of conjugated linoleic acid and exercise on body composition and obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2023 Meta-Analysis published in Nutrition reviews; statistical significance reported at p = 0.003 (RR 1.32). Key conclusion: CONCLUSION: CLA combined with exercise is generally safe and can lower body fat and insulin resistance but does not reduce body weight, enhance exercise performance, or improve lipid profiles.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

CONTEXT: Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has been reported to have anti-obesity and antidiabetic effects. However, the benefits of CLA combined with exercise remain unclear, and studies report conflicting results. OBJECTIVE: A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to investigate the synergistic effect of CLA and exercise on body composition, exercise-related indices, insulin resistance, and lipid profiles; and of the safety of CLA supplements. DATA SOURCES: In October 2021, the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for reports on clinical trials of the combined intervention of CLA and exercise. DATA EXTRACTION: A total of 18 randomized controlled trials and 2 crossover trials were included. The methodological quality assessment was performed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Pooled effect sizes were reported as standardized mean difference (SMD) for continuous data and risk ratio for dichotomous data with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was tested using the I2 statistic. DATA ANALYSIS: The combination of CLA and exercise resulted in significantly decreased body fat (SMD, -0.42 [95%CI, -0.70, -0.14]; P = 0.003; I2 = 65) and insulin resistance (SMD, -0.25 [95%CI, -0.44, -0.06]; P = 0.01; I2 = 0) than did exercise alone. In subgroup analysis, the following factors were associated with significant outcomes: (1) body mass index ≥25 kg/m2; (2) female sex; (3) follow-up time >4 weeks; and (4) intervention duration >4 weeks. Nevertheless, supplementation with CLA during exercise programs was not effective for body-weight control, exercise performance enhancement, or lipid-profile improvement. CLA in combination with exercise did not result in a higher risk of adverse events (risk ratio, 1.32 [95%CI, 0.94-1.84]; P > 0.05; I2 = 0). CONCLUSION: CLA combined with exercise is generally safe and can lower body fat and insulin resistance but does not reduce body weight, enhance exercise performance, or improve lipid profiles. © The Author(s) 2022. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the International Life Sciences Institute. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journ

07
META-ANALYSIS European journal of pharmacology (2022) PMID: 35940238 ↗
The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on blood pressure and endothelial function in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2022 Meta-Analysis published in European journal of pharmacology (MD -0.48). Key conclusion: CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis showed CLA association with reduction of ICAM.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND: Findings of studies investigating the effect of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on blood pressure (BP) and endothelial function are controversial. METHOD: This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed to explore the effects of CLA supplementation on BP and endothelial function. Two authors independently searched electronic databases using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus until March 2022, in order to find relevant RCTs. RESULTS: Eighteen RCTs with 20 effect sizes met the inclusion criteria and were eligible for meta-analysis. CLA supplementation did not significantly alter systolic blood pressure (SBP) (WMD: -0.48; 95% CI: -3.23, 2.27), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD: -0.71; 95% CI: -3.54, 2.12), and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM) (WMD: -34.02; 95% CI: -88.08, 20.03) levels. However, CLA supplementation significantly reduced intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM) (WMD: -8.02; 95% CI: -13.95, -2.09) level. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis showed CLA association with reduction of ICAM. The PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022331108.

08
META-ANALYSIS Prostaglandins & other lipid mediators (2022) PMID: 35914666 ↗
The effect of Conjugated Linoleic Acid intake on oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2022 Meta-Analysis published in Prostaglandins & other lipid mediators involving n = 586 participants. Key conclusion: According to our results, CLA supplementation significantly increases 8-iso-PGF2α urinary concentration (SMD: 2; 95% CI: 0.74, 3.27; I2 = 87.7%).
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) are thought to pose beneficial effects on inflammatory responses and oxidative stress (OS). Thus, the present systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to assess the net effects of CLA supplementation on various OS parameters and antioxidant enzymes. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for publications on CLA supplementation effects on OS parameters up to March 2021. The data extracted from eligible studies were expressed as standardized mean difference with 95% confidence intervals and then combined into meta-analysis using the random-effects model. Overall, 11 RCTs (enrolling 586 participants) met the inclusion criteria and were included in meta-analysis; however, since those trials evaluated different OS parameters, meta-analysis was carried out considering different sets for each parameter separately. According to our results, CLA supplementation significantly increases 8-iso-PGF2α urinary concentration (SMD: 2; 95% CI: 0.74, 3.27; I2 = 87.7%). On contrary, the intervention does not seem to change 15-keto-dihydro-PGF2α urinary concentration, nor the serum levels of CAT, SOD, GPx and MDA. Taken all together, CLA supplementation does not appear to have substantial effects on OS markers in general; albeit due to relatively small sample size and high level of heterogeneity between studies, the obtained findings should be interpreted with caution. Further large well-designed RCTs, investigating the impact of CLA and including various groups of patients, are still needed.

09
META-ANALYSIS Clinical nutrition ESPEN (2022) PMID: 35623803 ↗
The effect of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on oxidative stress markers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2022 Meta-Analysis published in Clinical nutrition ESPEN; statistical significance reported at p = 0.04. Key conclusion: CONCLUSION: It seems this supplement can be used as a dietary supplement to improve oxidative stress parameters.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Recent trial studies have found that conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation beneficially reduces oxidative stress markers but, there is no definitive consensus on this context. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of CLA supplementation on oxidative stress parameters. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases until September 2021 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing CLA supplementation effects on oxidative markers including malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-isoprostanesF2α (8-iso-PGF2α), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Summary estimates and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were derived via the DerSimonian and Laird method using a random-effects model. RESULTS: A total of 11 RCTs were included. The obtained results show that CLA supplementation caused a significant decrease in MDA concentrations (Hedges's: -0.35; 95% CI: -0.70 to -0.01, P = 0.04, I2 = 62.1%, n = 7), and also significantly increased 8-iso-PGF2α levels (Hedges's: 1.45; 95% CI: 0.98 to 1.91, P˂0.001, I2 = 42.9%, n = 4). However, the results showed that supplementation with CLA did not significantly change the concentrations of GPx (Hedges's: 0.30; 95% CI: -0.04 to 0.64, P = 0.08, I2 = 0.0%, n = 3). CONCLUSION: It seems this supplement can be used as a dietary supplement to improve oxidative stress parameters. However, further studies are required to demonstrate present results.

10
META-ANALYSIS Critical reviews in food science and nutrition (2019) PMID: 29672124 ↗
The effects of supplementation with conjugated linoleic acid on anthropometric indices and body composition in overweight and obese subjects: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2019 Meta-Analysis published in Critical reviews in food science and nutrition; statistical significance reported at p = 0.01 (MD -0.52). Key conclusion: Supplementation with CLA can slightly reduce body weight and FM and increase LBM in overweight and obese subjects.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

Clinical trials have indicated conflicting results on the effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on obesity. The present study aimed to systematically review controlled clinical trials examining the effects of CLA on anthropometric indices and body composition in overweight and obese subjects. Pubmed, Scopus, Web of science, and Cochrane databases were searched between 2000 and December 2017 with no language restriction. Placebo-controlled clinical trials that reported anthropometric indices and body composition in overweight and obese subjects were included. Random-effect model was used to pool the effect estimates. Of 4032 publications, 13 trials were included for the meta-analysis. Pooled effect sizes indicated that CLA significantly reduced body weight (WMD: -0.52 kg, 95% CI: -0.83, -0.21; I2: 48.0%, p = 0.01), BMI (WMD: -0.23 kg/m2, 95% CI: -0.39, - 0.06; I2: 64.7%, p = 0.0001), FM (WMD: -0.61 kg, 95% CI: -0.98, -0.24; I2: 53.8%, p = 0.01) and increased LBM (WMD: 0.19 kg, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.34; I2: 81.4%, p = 0.0001) compared to the placebo group. However, the effects of CLA on WC (WMD: 0.05 cm, 95% CI: -0.01, 0.1; I2: 0%, p = 0.93) was not significant. Additionally, its impact on body weight in subjects older than 44 year (WMD: -1.05 kg, 95% CI: -1.75, -0.35; I2: 57.0%, p = 0.01), with longer duration (more than 12 weeks) (WMD: -1.29 kg, 95% CI: -2.29, -0.29; I2: 70.3%, p = 0.003) and dosage more than 3.4 g/day (WMD: -0.77 kg, 95% CI: -1.28, -0.25; I2: 62.7%, p = 0.004) were greater than comparative groups. Supplementation with CLA can slightly reduce body weight and FM and increase LBM in overweight and obese subjects. However, its efficacy was not clinically considerable. Further studies with high methodological quality are needed to shed light on the effects of CLA on anthropometric indices in overweight and obese subjects.

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