Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
1
Duration
15 min
Results
7 days
Specialized test targeting specific health concerns or advanced biomarkers.
Essential fatty acid testing measures the levels of omega-3, omega-6, and other fatty acids in your blood. The omega-3 index — measuring EPA and DHA as a percentage of total red blood cell fatty acids — is an emerging cardiovascular risk marker. An index below 4% is associated with higher risk of sudden cardiac death, while above 8% is considered optimal. The balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids also matters: a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio promotes inflammation, while a lower ratio is anti-inflammatory. Most people in Western diets have ratios of 15:1 or higher, versus the recommended 4:1 or lower. Testing helps personalize supplementation and dietary choices.
Key Details
- Key Marker
- Omega-3 index (target >8%)
- Fasting Required
- No
- Sample Type
- Blood draw or finger-prick
- Turnaround
- 5–10 business days
- Common Use
- Supplementation guidance, cardiovascular risk
Who Is This For?
Anyone taking fish oil or omega-3 supplements who wants to verify they're achieving optimal levels. People interested in cardiovascular risk reduction beyond standard lipid panels. Those following anti-inflammatory diets who want to measure their omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. Athletes interested in recovery and inflammation management. Vegetarians and vegans who may not get enough EPA and DHA.
What's Included
Preparation Required
No fasting required. Continue your normal diet and supplements — the test measures your steady-state levels. Some labs use a finger-prick blood spot test that can be done at home.
Panel Categories
Biomarkers Tested
1The balance between pro-inflammatory omega-6 and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. A lower ratio (ideally below 4:1) is associated with reduced inflammation and lower cardiovascular risk. Modern Western diets often have ratios of 15:1 or higher.
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Duration
- 15 min
- Results
- 7 days