Conjugated Linoleic Acid: Sources, Synthesis and Potential Health Benefits- an Overview

Conjugated linoleic acid is a group of positional and geometrical isomers of linoleic acid (C18:2, cis-9, cis-12), an essential fatty acid for human and animals. It is produced in ruminants via biohydrogenation of poly-unsaturated fatty acids and during the mechanical processing of dairy products. Meat and dairy products from ruminant animals (such as milk, butter, yogurt and cheese) are the principal natural sources of CLA in the human diet. Because of its reported biological activities (i.e. anticarcinogenic, antiatherogenic, immune-enhancing and weight-reducing properties) in animal models, CLA has become a subject of interest as a supplement for human nutrition. However, further research is required to check the efficacy and role of CLA, the good fat, in cancer and other disease prevention; and to form the basis of evaluating its effect in humans by observational studies and clinical trials.