OmegaCheck
Performed by: Quest Diagnostics
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are polyunsaturated long chain fatty acids (PUFA) required by the body for proper functioning, normal growth and the formation of neural synapses and cellular membranes. Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids are considered “essential” and obtained primarily from dietary sources.
Three of the most important omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-3 fatty acids are primarily obtained from food sources. They have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic effects, and can help to reduce triglyceride levels. Two of the most important omega-6 fatty acids are arachidonic acid (AA) and linoleic acid (LA). Omega-6 fatty acids are obtained from animal sources and plant oils, and have pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic properties at high levels.
- Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids reduces the occurrence of major acute cardiac events in healthy individuals or patients with cardiovascular risk factors or who have cardiovascular disease.
- Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids leads to a reduction in triglycerides and non-HDL, as well as Lp-PLA2 levels.
- A high intake of omega-6 fatty acid precursors can interfere with the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids. The mean omega-6:omega-3 ratio of the standard American diet is approximately 10:1. A diet with an omega-6:omega-3 fatty acid ratio of 4:1 or less may reduce total mortality up to 70% over 2 years.
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Biomarkers included in this panel:
Arachidonic acid is an inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid. Our bodies produce this nutrient, and its excess may lead to inflammatory diseases and mood disorders.
Learn moreThis test measures the ratio of arachidonic acid (AA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in plasma. This ratio of the principle omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is a measure of the body’s eicosanoid balance. Balancing these eicosanoids in the body i
Learn moreDocosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is one of the omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) have a carbon–carbon double bond located three carbons from the methyl end of the chain. Omega-3s, sometimes referred to as “n-3s,” are
Learn moreDocosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is an omega-3 fatty acid with 22 carbons and five double bonds (22:5n3). It is formed from its precursor, EPA, by way of the elongase enzyme which adds two carbons. It can be supplemented or obtained in the diet from foods
Learn moreEicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) is a Polyunsaturated Omega-3 Fatty Acid and is involved in the regulation of inflammatory processes and prevention of blood clots. Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) have a carbon–carbon double bond located three carb
Learn moreThree of the most important omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-3 fatty acids are primarily obtained from food sources, such as oily fish. They have antioxidant,
Learn moreLinoleic acid is by far the most abundant polyunsaturated fatty acid in most human tissues. Linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid, and low levels indicate dietary insufficiency.
Learn moreEssential fatty acids are classified into fat "families": omega 3 fats and omega 6 fats. Non-essential fat "families" include omega-9 fats, saturated fats, omega-7 fats, and trans-fats. Optimal health depends on the proper b
Learn moreThe laboratory does not provide a specific reference range for this marker. Please refer to the Omega-6/Omega-3 Ratio for detailed information and interpretive guidance. This ratio is essential for assessing various health markers related to fatty ac
Learn moreOmega-6:Omega-3 ratio is calculated by dividing the sum of all the omega-6 fatty acids by the sum of all the omega-3 fatty acids. Omega 6 and 3 are two essential fats that are categorized as polyunsaturated fatty acids, or PUFAs for shor
Learn moreThis marker determines fatty acid-associated risk for cardiovascular events. OmegaCheck = [(EPA + DPA + DHA) ÷ total PLFA] x 100 Diet is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. For example, diets rich in polyunsatu
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