What is the purpose of this test?
The Omega-3 and -6 Fatty Acids Blood Test measures the levels of these essential fats in your blood, which are crucial for overall health. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are types of polyunsaturated fats that your body cannot produce on its own, so they must come from your diet. These fatty acids play vital roles in brain function, cardiovascular health, and inflammation regulation.
During the test, a blood sample is taken from your arm and analyzed in a laboratory to determine the concentrations of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The results provide insights into your dietary intake and how well your body metabolizes these fats. Imbalances in omega-3 and omega-6 levels can impact various aspects of health, such as increasing the risk of heart disease or affecting mood and cognitive function. This test helps healthcare providers assess your nutritional status and recommend dietary adjustments or supplements to maintain optimal levels of these essential fatty acids.
Who should get this test?
The Omega-3 and -6 Fatty Acids Blood Test can be helpful for:
- People who want to assess their heart health
- Individuals with a family history of cardiovascular disease
- Those interested in knowing their overall inflammation levels
- People with dry skin or inflammatory skin conditions
- Individuals seeking to optimize their brain health
When should I order this test?
The Omega-3 and -6 Fatty Acids Blood Test should be ordered if a person has the following symptoms:
- Dry, itchy skin
- Brittle hair and nails
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Emotional sensitivity
If you experience any of these symptoms, your doctor may want to order a blood test to check your Omega-3 and -6 fatty acid levels to see if they are in a healthy range.
Sample Report
Also Known As:
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs); EPA; Omega-3 Index; Omega-6/omega-3 Ratio
Preparation:
Fasting for 12 hours required.
Test Results:
8-12 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays. At this time, the lab is experiencing delays, which could add 5 days to the normal turnaround time for results.
