Conjugated Linoleic Acid (known as CLA) is a fatty acid commonly found in beef (especially grass-fed) and dairy (and kangaroo meat, but that seems a bit impractical).
In some studies it has been shown that certain isomers (compounds with the same molecules, but different structural formulas) of CLA reduce fat mass, help with muscle growth, and lower insulin resistance. Dosage recommendations seem to vary a bit between studies, but it appears that taking close to 3 grams a day results in the aforementioned benefits.
A study in 2010 showed that taking CLA does not have any adverse effects on liver and kidney functioning in healthy people.
It is likely that more long-term studies are needed to determine if the supplement has any adverse effects on the body and how the supplement affects different age groups, but for now it looks promising.
Raff M, Tholstrup T, Mandrup S, et al. Conjugated Linoleic Acids Reduce Body Fat in Healthy Postmenopausal Women. Journal of Nutrition. July 2009;139(7):1347
Wanders A, Leder L, Banga J, Katan M, Brouwer I. A high intake of conjugated linoleic acid does not affect liver and kidney function tests in healthy human subjects. Food & Chemical Toxicology. February 2010;48(2):587-590.
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