Use GLA to keep the pounds off—for good.
New evidence suggests that gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 essential fat, may prevent weight regain following major weight loss. The Department of Nutrition at the University of California conducted a yearlong double-blind study involving fifty formally obese people. They were randomized to receive either 890 mg of GLA per day or the placebo of 5 g per day of olive oil, and their body weight and composition was assessed at 0, 3, and 12 months.
Upon completion of the study, those who received GLA had regained an average of just under 5 pounds, while those in the placebo group gained just over 19—suggesting that GLA plays a role in reducing weight gain following major weight loss in adults prone to obesity.
GLA has been found to activate metabolically active brown fat, enabling the body to turn on its fat-burning engine. These healing prostaglandins accelerate weight loss—without dieting and without study participants reporting any feelings of deprivation.
Dr. Ann Louise’s Take:
A recent study in Phytotherapy Research shows that one source of GLA—blackcurrant oil soft capsules (BOSC)—are safe and effective treatment for high cholesterol and triglycerides. Not only does supplementing with black currant oil lower total cholesterol and triglyceride levels but it also increases blood levels of healthy (HDL) cholesterol.
Black currant seed oil is the most balanced form of gamma linolenic acid (it contains omega-3’s, as well as omega-6), which is why I use it in GLA-90. The typical adult dosage is two softgels, each containing 90 mg of GLA, taken twice daily, preferably with meals, or as directed by a health care professional. But for those who wish to prevent weight regaining after major weight loss, I would suggest 3 softgells, each containing 90 mg of GLA taken with each meal.
Beautifying Benefits & More
Besides weight loss benefits, GLA can also help clear up your complexion and restore sheen to dry hair. Without sufficient GLA, cellular membranes cannot hold on to moisture, leaving hair, nails, and skin dry and dull looking. One of the most effective “internal moisturizers” around, this beneficial omega-6 also makes cells in the fatty layer beneath the skin more resilient, helping to prevent wrinkles.
Placebo-controlled research at the University of Italy even shows significant reduction in eczema (allergic, red, itchy skin) with GLA. After 12 weeks using this essential fat, 90% of study volunteers reported less itching, and 40% had fewer watery breakouts. In terms of women’s health, study after study shows that gamma linolenic acid is outstanding for relieving anxiety, irritability, fluid retention, breast tenderness, and mood changes associated with PMS and menopause.
It’s just the right fat to get you through the holidays feeling thin, healthy, and beautiful!
Sources:
Beyond Pritikin, A Total Nutrition Program for Weight Loss, Longevity, and Good Health
Eat Fat, Lose Weight
Fat Flush or Life
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17513402
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20041414
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19842026
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14729014
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2553025
