Basic Lab ¬ Omega 3 Fatty Acid Test

There are two main essential fatty acids that we can get from our food; omega 3 and 6. The amount that we have of each in our body can greatly influence all of its functioning and increase our risk of many illnesses.

This test is performed using serum and measures total Omega 3 fats, EPA + DHA fats, DHA and AA: EPA ratio. The total omega fat score is important as if above a specific level the risk of coronary heart disease is lower. The EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) + DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) score helps to predict risk of fatal ischemic heart disease. DHA measured alone also helps to predict risk of coronary heart disease. And the ratio of AA (arachidonic acid) to EPA can help to determine the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, asthma, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.