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Our Members Asked:
Can CLA slimming supplements cause liver damage?
Reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D.
Answer:
Although CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) is a popular supplement for slimming, there is some evidence it could have negative effects on the liver. It may also worsen blood sugar control. For more about these and other potential side effects, as well as our tests of CLA products, see the CLA Supplements Review >>Join today to unlock all member benefits including full access to all CL Answers and over 1,300 reviews.
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Linda G.8664
May 3, 2016I once took CLA for several months to assist with weight loss because it was being highly recommended. It was very new at that time. I had a blood test and saw that my good cholesterol (HDL) shot way down about 15 or 20 points; it was always high at about 65. I immediately stopped taking the CLA and the next blood test showed my HDL back to where it always was. Some months later the blogger who recommended CLA for weight loss decided that she could no longer do so. I don't know what her reason was because she didn't say, but for me it was the sharp decrease in HDL. I would be very careful taking this if you have any heart or cholesterol issues.
ConsumerLab.com
May 3, 2016Hi Linda - Thank you for sharing your experience taking CLA; it's true that it can lower HDL cholesterol, although not typically by as much as you experienced -- see the "What It Does" ( https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/cla-conjugated-linoleic-acid-for-slimming/cla/#whatitdoes) and "Cautions and Concerns" ( https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/cla-conjugated-linoleic-acid-for-slimming/cla/#cautions) sections of the CLA Supplements Review.