Why was this study done?
It is clear from multiple studies that essential fatty acid distribution in obese and overweight persons is different than their lean counterparts. This study was designed to determine whether supplementing with Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) following weight loss would impact future weight gain.
What did the study find?
The study discovered that supplementing participants, who were previously obese, with 890 milligrams a day of GLA did have an effect on preventing future weight gain. The authors noted it took nine months for this effect to be noticed, suggesting that it takes a while for GLA to be incorporated into the cells of the body.
Gamma-linolenate reduces weight regain in formerly obese humans.
Authors: Schirmer MA, Phinney SD. J Nutr. 2007 Jun;137(6):1430-5.
PubMed Citation PMID: 17513402.
PDF Manuscript: J Nutr, 2007.