About the test
The Ultimate Omega-3/6 Index complete test measures all the fatty acids in the blood, reporting levels of 24 fatty acids, including the Omega-3 Index, various ratios, and the Trans Fat Index. This test provides detailed information about the types and amounts of fatty acids present, which can help in assessing dietary fat intake and understanding its potential impact on health.
5 Biomarkers and Investigations
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FATTY ACIDS
- Omega-3 Index
- Omega-6 to Omega-3 Ratio
- AA:EPA Ratio
- Trans Fat Index -
UPGRADE
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What is Omega-3 Index?
The omega-3 index measures the levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in your blood as a percentage of all the fatty acids in your blood. EPA and DHA are types of omega-3 essential fatty acids that are important for the formation of cell membranes as well as cardiovascular, brain and eye health. A higher omega-3 index is thought to be protective against cardiovascular disease.
What is Omega-6: Omega-3 Ratio?
Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to our health. However excess levels of omega-6 fatty acids are thought to promote inflammation within the body which may contribute to cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease and allergies. In contrast, omega-3 fatty acids are thought to be anti-inflammatory and so reduce the risk of these diseases. The omega-6: omega-3 ratio tells you the relative balance of each of these types of fatty acid in your blood enabling you to make dietary changes to optimise this balance.
What is AA:EPA Ratio?
Arachidonic acid (AA) is the principle omega-6 fatty acid. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is the principle omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-6 fatty acids are thought to be pro-inflammatory, causing inflammation within the body that may contribute to cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease and allergies.
In contrast, omega-3 fatty acids are thought to be anti-inflammatory and so reduce the risk of these diseases. The AA:EPA ratio helps to determine whether you have the optimal balance of essential fatty acids and so enables you to make dietary changes to improve this balance.
What is the Trans Fat Index?
The Trans Fat Index is a measure of the level of trans fats in your blood. Trans fats are unhealthy fats that are most commonly found in processed foods. High levels of trans fats are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, so this test allows you to determine whether your diet is increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.