Are conjugated linolenic acid isomers an alternative to conjugated linoleic acid isomers in obesity prevention?

Abstract

Despite its benefits, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) may cause side effects after long-term administration. Because of this and the controversial efficacy of CLA in humans, alternative biomolecules that may be used as functional ingredients have been studied in recent years. Thus, conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) has been reported to be a potential anti-obesity molecule which may have additional positive effects related to obesity. According to the results reported in obesity, CLNA needs to be given at higher doses than CLA to be effective. However, because of the few studies conducted so far, it is still difficult to reach clear conclusions about the potential use of these CLNAs in obesity and its related changes (insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, or inflammation).

Keywords: Conjugated linoleic acid; Conjugated linolenic acid; Functional ingredients; Ingredientes funcionales; Obesidad; Obesity; Ácido linoleico conjugado; Ácido linolénico conjugado.