If you know me, you know that our family eats only 100% pasture raised animal products. One big reason is a unique fat called CLA. Read on to learn more about why this nutrient is so important. 

CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) is an omega 6 fatty acid primarily found in the meat and dairy products of ruminant animals such as bison, cows, goats, and sheep. It has been studied for potential health benefits, including its effects on heart health. 

Here’s why CLA is considered beneficial for heart health:

1. Reduces Body Fat: CLA has been shown in some studies to reduce body fat mass, particularly abdominal fat. Lower levels of body fat can contribute to improved heart health by reducing risk factors associated with obesity.

2. Improved Lipid Profile: Research suggests that CLA might affect lipid metabolism, potentially leading to changes such as increased levels of larger LDL particles and decreased levels of smaller, dense LDL particles. Larger LDL particles are generally considered less atherogenic (less likely to contribute to plaque formation in arteries) compared to smaller, dense LDL particles.

3. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties: CLA exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are linked to cardiovascular diseases.

4. Improves Insulin Sensitivity: Some studies indicate that CLA may improve insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes—a significant risk factor for heart disease.

One study found that higher blood levels of CLA was linked to a lower risk of congestive heart failure. 

Best Sources of CLA

Meat, eggs and dairy are great sources of CLA. Seafood is not, but is high in the all important EPA/DHA fatty acids. 

Only eat grass fed and pasture raised animal products. 

Grass-fed meat typically contains higher levels of CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) compared to grain-fed meat. This difference arises because CLA is formed in the rumen (the first stomach) of ruminant animals like cows when they consume grasses and certain other plants. The bacteria in the rumen convert linoleic acid found in grass into CLA through a process called biohydrogenation.

On the other hand, grain-fed diets, which are more common in conventional farming, provide different nutrients to the animals and do not promote the same levels of CLA production in their meat. Therefore, grass-fed meat is often considered to have a higher nutritional profile, including beneficial fatty acids like CLA, compared to grain-fed meat.

Making it Easy

Our favorite food choices are located on our Products We Recommend page. 

Looking for bison liver and heart in a capsule? Look no further.