Q: Do we make any CLA or is it essential to our health?
A: We can make some CLA naturally, when our healthy gut bacteria in our colon convert linoleic (omega 6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega 3) into CLA. Many of us though are deficient in these good microbes, and the healthy fats needed to make CLA.
Q: How do I get more CLA in my diet?
A: As CLA is naturally found in the meat and dairy of ruminant animals, like cows, goats and sheep, consider adding these to your diet. It’s found in much higher quantities in those fed grass or eat their natural wild diet, so if you are already eating meat and dairy, switch to grass-fed or free range, like those found at your local farmers market.
Q: Is CLA one of the reasons grass-fed butter is so good for us?
A: Yes, since CLA is a fat, it’s found in food sources of fat. And nothing has more fat than a pound of butter! Look for grass-fed butter at your health food store, often only available in the summer (read grass-growing) season.
Q: Does Organika’s CLA come from an animal source?
A: No, like all CLA supplements, our CLA is derived from safflower oil. Organika’s CLA is not vegetarian-friendly though as it is packaged in a gelatin capsule.
Q: Aren’t omega 6’s bad for inflammation?
A: Omega 6 fatty acids are actually an essential fat for humans – meaning we need to consume it to function properly. It’s the ratio between our intake of omega 3 and 6’s that has gotten us into trouble. When we have a balanced ratio of about 1 part omega 3’s to 4 parts omega 6’s, those omega 6’s are actually quite anti-inflammatory and keep the inflammation cascade flowing properly. Our current North American diet is anywhere from 15-40 parts omega 6’s, the excess coming from processed and packaged foods and grain-fed animals. This has gotten us into trouble, with chronic inflammation being fueled by these processed omega 6’s.
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