Q1: What is Tetradecyl Thioacetic Acid (TTA)and how does it work?
TTA is an omega 3 fatty acid with an added sulfar group. Because of the addition of the sulfar group, it cannot be metabolized by beta oxidation (used for fuel). Supplementation of TTA has been shown to be a potent PPAR-alpha activator, meaning that it is a regulator of lipid metabolism in the liver. What this means is that when PPAR-alpha is activated, fatty acid catabolism (break down) and utilisation (used as a fuel) is increased through beta-oxidation.
PPAR-alpha activation is common in an energy derived state when the body must rely on stored energy to fuel its needs - if we activate this through supplementation of TTA supplementation, then ultimately we increase fat burning even in periods of energy availability.
Another benefit of PPAR-alpha activation is that it removes fatty acids from the blood stream in order to be used for fuel and is thus seen as being a useful tool in preventing fat storage.
Another interesting benefit is TTAs ability to increase Scavenger Receptor A (SRA) which is both anti-inflammatory (by way of reducing tumour necrosis factor alpha [TNF-a]) and reduce LDL cholesterol levels. It is through these benefits that TTA is known to be cardio-protective.
If we also consider the relationship between triglycerides and LDL particles, then we can understand why PPAR activation is seen as cardio protective. The higher the level of triglycerides (increased fat storage), the smaller and denser the LDL-particles. A small, dense LDL particle is more readily able to penetrate the endothelium of arteries and promote the cascade of events that lead atherosclerosis (clogging of the arteries). As TTA supplementation can lower triglyceride levels through PPAR-a activation, then we can help minimise arterial damage caused through this process. We also note that TTA inhibits the oxidative modification of LDL – oxidation of LDL particles is considered a key step in the formation of foam cells and the forming of plaque on the arteries.
Q2: What are the most common side effects with TTA supplementation and what can be done to prevent them?
TTA supplementation is known to cause an electrolyte imbalance which can cause a myriad of side effects; most notably cramping and water retention. The electrolyte balance is seemingly caused by by its ability to act as a chelating agent meaning that it binds electrolytes (metal ions) when it is radical scavenging. This will cause lower sodium ions and potassium ions in cells, causing the water retention and cramping issues.
To overcome these issues, TTA-500 from SNS has an added electrolyte complex to help restore electrolyte balance. This helps to prevent the side effects from TTA supplementation. Making SNS one of the best sources for TTA.