Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is found in high doses in grass-fed beef. Just what is this acid and why is it good for the body?
CLA is an amino acid that can be used for weight loss, helping the body lose fat while increasing endurance and muscle strength.
Related to omega-6 fatty acids, CLA cannot be produced by the human body and must be consumed in order for its effects to be seen.
It can help your body increase its metabolic rates as well as boost your immune system and keep cholesterol levels healthy.
Found in dairy and animal fats, such as beef, lamb, whole milk, and eggs, this acid can be found more strongly in grass-fed beef which will provide your body with around 500-800 milligrams of for every 100 grams you consume.
This is around two to three times the amount you would get from grain-fed products.
Another advantage of including this important acid in your diet is that it may help you reduce your blood sugar levels along with your weight.
CLA can also decrease levels of leptin in the bloodstream which is a hormone believed to regulate fat levels in the body.
A 2003 study by Martha Belury, associate professor of human nutrition at Ohio State University, recommends diabetics get their CLA from foods such as organic beef as the effects of taking chemical supplements have yet to be documented.
Plus, eating this delicious treat tastes better and it also has the benefit of containing other healthful ingredients such as iron, zinc and omega 3 acids.
Research from Virginia Tech in 2012 also found this acid may be beneficial when it comes to treating those with mild Crohn’s disease, which is a form of inflammatory bowel disease.
