GLA Buyer's Guide

LIMITED EVIDENCE FOR ATHLETES

Gamma-linolenic Acid (Omega-6) has benefits for neuropathy in diabetics (both type 1 and 2). Supplements often pair GLA with borage oil or other omega-3 fatty acids.

How to take

Typical dosages used in studies range from 100-480 mg per day.

Recommended Products

USP Approved Supplements

There are no USP Approved Gamma-linolenic Acid supplements.

NSF Approved Supplements

There are no NSF Approved Gamma-linolenic Acid supplements.

Informed Sport Approved Supplements

There are no Informed Sport approved Gamma-linolenic Acid supplements.

Informed Choice Approved Supplements

There are no Informed Choice approved Gamma-linolenic Acid supplements.

Other Good Options

• Nordic Naturals, Nordic Beauty, Omega-3 + Borage Oil, 60 Softgels
• Jarrow Formulas, Borage, GLA-240, 1200 mg, 120 Softgels
• NOW Foods, Borage Oil, Concentration GLA , 1,000 mg, 120 Softgels
• NOW Foods, Borage Oil, Concentration GLA, 1,000 mg, 60 Softgels
   

Other Options for those with dietary limitations

For Athletes

There is limited benefit of GLA for athletes. It is possible that GLA may improve nerve function in those with diabetic neuropathy. Higher doses (above 3 g) may increase inflammation in the body.

For Healthcare Practitioners

Mechanism of Action

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid. Borage and evening primrose are common sources. Black currant seed oil is another source. Whilst omega-6 fatty acids including linoleic acid (LA) and arachidonic acid (AA) promote inflammation in the body, GLA appears to reduce inflammation through conversion to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA). DGLA acts as a precursor to anti-inflammatory compounds where it is metabolized via the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway to produce 1-series prostaglandins (PGE1). It is also converted via the 15-lipoxygnase (LOX) pathway into 15-(S)-hydroxy-8,11,13-eicosatrienoic acid (15-HETrE). DGLA-derived metabolites therefore suppress inflammation, promote vasodilation, lower blood pressure, and exert anti-neoplastic activities and inhibit smooth muscle cell proliferation (PubMed).
DGLA may compete with AA for COX and LOX enzymes. When DGLA is in excess, it inhibits the synthesis of AA-derived eicosanoids due to its higher affinity for these enzymes (PubMed). The conversion of GLA to DGLA is influenced by nutrient status in the individual, and requires zinc, magnesium, vitamin C, B3 and B6 (PubMed). Individual genetic variations in the fatty acid desaturase gene cluster may also determine how much GLA is converted to DGLA or AA. The presence of other fatty acids including eicosapentaenoic acid may reduce the conversion of GLA to AA.

Interactions

Drug Interactions

ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS

GLA may increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.