Omega 3 & 6 Test

About this test – Omega 3 & 6 Test

Why test your omega balance?

Fatty acid balance is influenced by diet and can shift over time, particularly with low intake of omega-3 or higher consumption of processed fats.

This test may be relevant when exploring:

• Low intake of oily fish or omega-3 rich foods

• High intake of processed foods or vegetable oils

• Imbalance between omega-3 and omega-6

• Long-term dietary fat patterns

• Interest in assessing markers such as the Omega-3 Index or AA/EPA ratio

How it works

1. Collect a small blood sample at home using a finger prick (dried blood spot)

2. Send your sample to the laboratory using the prepaid return envelope

3. Your sample is analysed at an accredited laboratory

4. Receive your digital results within 10–14 days

You can also use our AI-based chat to help interpret your results.

Key information

• Sample type: Dried blood spot (finger prick)

• Turnaround time: 10–14 days from when the lab receives your sample

• Results: Delivered digitally

• Laboratory: Accredited laboratory

• Shipping: Return shipping included

Accredited Laboratory

Your sample is analysed at a NATA-accredited laboratory in Australia, operating in accordance with ISO 15189 standards for medical testing. This ensures that all analyses are performed using validated methods and strict quality control procedures to provide accurate and reliable results.

Biomarkers included – Omega 3 & 6 Test

• Omega-6 / Omega-3 Ratio: Fatty Acid Summary and Ratios — The Omega-6 / Omega-3 Ratio compares the levels of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids to anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids in the body. A high ratio indicates a diet rich in omega-6s, promoting inflammation, while a balanced ratio (closer to 1:1, or 4:1 as a conservative target) is desirable for cellular health and reducing chronic disease risk.
• Delta-6 Desaturase Activity: Fatty Acid Summary and Ratios — Delta-6 desaturase (D6D) activity is a measure of the rate at which a key enzyme converts saturated fatty acids into monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly influencing the production of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It plays a crucial role in regulating fatty acid metabolism and can be indicative of an individual's ability to synthesize essential fatty acids, impacting ce
• Total Omega-3: Fatty Acid Summary and Ratios — Total Omega-3 measures the combined levels of omega-3 fatty acids, a group of polyunsaturated fats essential for various bodily functions. These fats are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cardiovascular well-being, and their levels can indicate dietary intake and overall metabolic health.
• Total Omega-6: Fatty Acid Summary and Ratios — Total Omega-6 refers to the combined amount of all omega-6 fatty acids in the blood. These polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential fats that play roles in inflammation, immune function, and cell membrane structure. Maintaining a balanced ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids is crucial for overall health.
• Total Monounsaturated Fats: Fatty Acid Summary and Ratios — Total monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) are a type of unsaturated fatty acid found in foods like olive oil, avocados, and nuts. Measuring these fats in the blood can provide insights into dietary patterns and their potential impact on cardiovascular health.
• Total Saturated Fats: Fatty Acid Summary and Ratios — Total saturated fats represent the sum of all saturated fatty acids in the blood. High levels of saturated fats are often associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease because they can contribute to the buildup of LDL cholesterol in arteries.
• Omega-3 Index: Fatty Acid Summary and Ratios — The Omega-3 Index is a measure of the percentage of EPA and DHA (the most beneficial omega-3 fatty acids) in red blood cell membranes. It reflects long-term dietary intake of omega-3s and is considered a strong predictor of cardiovascular health risk. A higher Omega-3 Index is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
• AA / EPA Ratio: Fatty Acid Summary and Ratios — The AA/EPA ratio (Arachidonic Acid / Eicosapentaenoic Acid ratio) is a measure of the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory fatty acids in the body. A higher ratio indicates a greater presence of pro-inflammatory signals, while a lower ratio suggests a more anti-inflammatory state, which is generally associated with better cardiovascular and overall health.
• Omega-3 / Omega-6 Ratio: Fatty Acid Summary and Ratios — The Omega-3/Omega-6 ratio measures the balance between two types of polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. A healthy ratio is crucial for regulating inflammation, supporting brain health, and maintaining cardiovascular function, as an imbalance can contribute to inflammatory conditions.
• Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA): Omega 3 Fatty Acids — Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that plays an important role in supporting health, though it is less well-known than eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Found mainly in fish and seafood, DPA supports cardiovascular function, brain health, and overall well-being.
• Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA): Omega 3 Fatty Acids — EPA is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid found mainly in fatty fish and certain algae. It is incorporated into cell membranes and serves as a precursor to signaling molecules that help regulate inflammation, blood vessel function, and platelet activity. EPA status is often assessed as part of a fatty acid profile and is discussed in relation to cardiovascular health and inflammatory balance. Measure
• Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): Omega 3 Fatty Acids — DHA is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid and a major structural component of cell membranes, particularly in the brain and retina. It supports normal brain development and function and contributes to visual health. The body can produce only small amounts of DHA from shorter-chain omega-3s, so DHA is primarily obtained through diet (for example, fatty fish and algae) or supplements. Adequate DHA stat
• Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA): Omega 3 Fatty Acids — Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an essential omega-3 fatty acid, meaning the body cannot produce it and it must be obtained through diet. ALA can be converted into longer-chain omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA, although this conversion is limited in many individuals. Omega-3 fatty acids are involved in normal cell membrane function and play roles in cardiovascular, brain, and inflammatory pat
• Docosapentaenoic Acid (n6): Omega 6 Fatty Acids — Docosapentaenoic Acid (n6), also known as DPA(n6), is an omega-6 fatty acid that plays a role in inflammation and cell membrane structure. While it can be produced in the body from other omega-6 fatty acids, its levels are an indicator of dietary intake and metabolism of these fats. Elevated levels may be associated with certain metabolic conditions.
• Arachidonic acid (AA): Omega 6 Fatty Acids — Arachidonic acid (AA) is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid found in cell membranes and is an important substrate in immune and inflammatory signaling. It is a precursor to eicosanoids—bioactive molecules that help regulate processes such as inflammation, vascular tone, platelet aggregation (blood clotting), and pain and fever responses. AA is essential for normal physiology, but its effects dep
• Eicosadienoic Acid: Omega 6 Fatty Acids — Eicosadienoic acid is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid that plays a role in inflammatory processes and cell membrane structure. Measuring its levels can offer insights into metabolic health and potential dietary fatty acid imbalances.
• Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA): Omega 6 Fatty Acids — Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in certain plant oils, such as evening primrose and borage oil. In the body, GLA can be converted into dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), which serves as a precursor to signaling molecules (prostaglandins/eicosanoids) involved in inflammatory regulation and immune-related pathways. Measured GLA levels can provide insight into omega-6 fatty
• Linoleic acid (LA): Omega 6 Fatty Acids — Linoleic acid (LA) is an essential omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid, meaning the body cannot produce it and it must be obtained through diet. It serves as a precursor for other important fatty acids like arachidonic acid and plays a vital role in maintaining skin barrier function, cardiovascular health, and immune responses. Monitoring LA levels can provide insights into dietary fat intake and t
• Dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA): Omega 6 Fatty Acids — DGLA is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid formed in the body from linoleic acid (LA) via gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). It can be converted into signaling molecules (eicosanoids) that are generally considered less pro-inflammatory, and it may compete with arachidonic acid (AA) in inflammatory pathways. For this reason, DGLA is often discussed in relation to inflammatory balance and cell membrane f
• Docosatetraenoic Acid: Omega 6 Fatty Acids — Docosatetraenoic acid (DTA) is a type of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid found in the body. It is an intermediate in the synthesis of longer-chain omega-6 fatty acids like arachidonic acid, which are crucial for inflammatory responses and cell membrane structure.
• Palmitoleic acid (PLA): Monounsaturated and Omega 9 Fatty Acids — Palmitoleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that plays a role in metabolism and overall health. Though less common than other fatty acids, it is found in sources like macadamia nuts and certain fish. It is gaining attention for its potential benefits on insulin sensitivity and cholesterol regulation.
• Oleic acid (OA): Monounsaturated and Omega 9 Fatty Acids — Oleic acid (OA) is a monounsaturated fatty acid that is the most abundant fatty acid in the human diet and adipose tissue. It is a key component of cell membranes and an important source of energy, playing a role in metabolic processes and cellular signaling. Elevated levels of oleic acid can sometimes be associated with certain metabolic conditions.
• Total Omega-9: Monounsaturated and Omega 9 Fatty Acids — Total Omega-9 refers to the sum of all omega-9 fatty acids, which are monounsaturated fats. These fats are important for cardiovascular health, as they can help lower LDL cholesterol while maintaining HDL cholesterol levels. Higher levels may be associated with reduced risk of heart disease and improved insulin sensitivity.
• Gondoic Acid: Monounsaturated and Omega 9 Fatty Acids — Gondoic acid is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid. It is primarily found in certain seed oils and animal fats, and its presence and levels in the body can reflect dietary intake and fatty acid metabolism. Monitoring gondoic acid may offer insights into lipid profiles and potential dietary influences on health.
• Nervonic Acid: Monounsaturated and Omega 9 Fatty Acids — Nervonic acid is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid found in high concentrations in the brain and nervous system, particularly in myelin sheath. It is crucial for proper nerve cell function, myelination, and neuronal development. Elevated levels can be associated with certain neurological conditions and metabolic disorders.
• Arachidic Acid: Saturated Fatty Acids — Arachidic acid is a saturated fatty acid found in various plant and animal sources, including peanuts and palm oil. It is a type of lipid that plays a role in energy storage and can be metabolized by the body. Monitoring arachidic acid levels may provide insights into dietary intake and metabolic processes.
• Lignoceric Acid: Saturated Fatty Acids — Lignoceric acid is a long-chain saturated fatty acid that plays a role in the structure of myelin, the fatty sheath that insulates nerve fibers. Elevated levels can be indicative of certain metabolic disorders, particularly those affecting very long-chain fatty acid metabolism.
• Stearic acid (SA): Saturated Fatty Acids — Stearic acid (SA) is a saturated fatty acid, a type of lipid, commonly found in many foods. It's a component of cell membranes and an essential building block for other fatty acids in the body. While high intake of some saturated fats is linked to cardiovascular risk, stearic acid's effect on cholesterol levels is often considered neutral or even slightly beneficial, as it can be converted to olei
• Myristic Acid (MA): Saturated Fatty Acids — Myristic acid (C14:0) is a saturated fatty acid with a 14-carbon chain, found in animal fats, dairy products, and certain plant oils. It is involved in various biological functions but is also known to raise cholesterol levels when consumed in excess.
• Palmitic acid (PA): Saturated Fatty Acids — Palmitic acid (PA) is the most common saturated fatty acid in animals and plants, serving as a primary component of fats and oils. It is a key building block for more complex lipids and plays a vital role in energy storage and cellular structure. Elevated or significantly altered levels of palmitic acid can be associated with metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease risk, and insulin resistance
• Behenic Acid: Saturated Fatty Acids — Behenic acid is a long-chain saturated fatty acid that can be found in certain plant-based oils. Its levels may reflect dietary intake and can be influenced by metabolic processes. Elevated levels are sometimes associated with specific health conditions.
• Trans Linoleic Acid: Trans Fatty Acid Profile — Trans linoleic acid (TLA) is a type of unsaturated fatty acid that is primarily formed during the hydrogenation of vegetable oils. Elevated levels of certain trans fatty acids are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, as they can negatively impact cholesterol levels.
• Total Trans Fatty Acids: Trans Fatty Acid Profile — Total trans fatty acids represent the sum of all trans isomers of unsaturated fatty acids, primarily found in partially hydrogenated vegetable oils and some animal products. Elevated levels in the body are strongly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease due to their negative impact on cholesterol profiles by raising LDL ('bad') cholesterol and lowering HDL ('good') cholesterol
• Trans Fat Index: Trans Fatty Acid Profile — The Trans Fat Index is a measure of the amount of trans fatty acids present in your blood, primarily in your cell membranes. High levels of trans fats are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, as they can negatively impact cholesterol levels and promote inflammation.
• Trans Oleic Acid: Trans Fatty Acid Profile — Trans oleic acid is a type of unsaturated fatty acid that is often found in partially hydrogenated vegetable oils and, to a lesser extent, in dairy products and meat. Elevated levels in the blood are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, making it a marker for dietary fat quality and its impact on heart health.
• Trans Palmitoleic Acid: Trans Fatty Acid Profile — Trans palmitoleic acid is a type of unsaturated fatty acid that is naturally produced by bacteria in the gut and can also be found in certain dairy products and meats. Elevated levels are associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, acting as a marker for improved metabolic health.

How to prepare – Omega 3 & 6 Test

Fasting for 8-12 hours is recommended before sample collection. Avoid taking fatty acid supplements on the morning of the test.

Frequently asked questions – Omega 3 & 6 Test

What is the Omega-3 Index and why is it important?

The Omega-3 Index measures the percentage of EPA and DHA in your red blood cell membranes. Maintaining a level above 8% is widely considered optimal for supporting cardiovascular health and reducing cellular stress.

What does the AA/EPA ratio mean?

The AA/EPA ratio meaning refers to the balance between pro-inflammatory Arachidonic Acid (AA) and anti-inflammatory Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA). This ratio is a primary marker for cellular inflammation and helps guide dietary adjustments to manage the body's inflammatory response.

How accurate is an at-home fatty acid profile using DBS?

Research indicates that Dried Blood Spot (DBS) testing is highly correlated with traditional venous blood draws for fatty acid analysis. This makes it a reliable and convenient method for home monitoring without visiting a clinic.

Do I need to fast before taking the test?

While the test reflects long-term cellular status, a fast of 8-12 hours is recommended before collection. This helps ensure that your recent meals do not temporarily fluctuate the levels of fats currently circulating in your bloodstream.

Why does this test measure DPA?

DPA is an intermediate fatty acid between EPA and DHA. It acts as a nutritional reservoir that the body can convert back into EPA when needed, playing a specific role in maintaining healthy blood vessels and heart function.

Customer reviews – Omega 3 & 6 Test

4.6/5 (5)

• 5/5 — Easy process and the results were very detailed.
• 5/5 — Fast shipping and easy instructions.
• 5/5 — Great for tracking my AA/EPA ratio. Very helpful.
• 4/5 — Satisfied with the purchase.
• 4/5 — The finger prick was a bit finicky for me, but the data is exactly what I needed for my diet.