Why you are likely to need more of this very important nutrient.

Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential fatty acids needed for human health and development. The Western diet is disproportionately high in omega-6 PUFAs and low in omega-3 PUFAs. This high 6/3 ratio is thought to contribute to cardiovascular disease, inflammation, cancer and more. Our bodies do not make omega oils, so we need to get them through our diet or supplementation.

Omega 3 fats help balance out omega 6 fats and regulate our body’s production of anti-inflammatory and inflammatory molecules. Many processed foods and seed oils, like corn oil, are high in omega 6 and can be highly inflammatory in the body, contributing to many of our modern diseases.

Extensive studies indicate that the anti-inflammatory compounds of omega 3 may be responsible for a long list of health benefits. This is not to say that the other omega oils are not beneficial, but quality and quantity are very important!

Studies show optimising intake of omega 3 may offer various benefits. Among them are a reduced risk of heart disease, a reduced likelihood of behavioural problems in children and teens, lower rates of depression, benefits in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, reduction in diabetes, support for cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. Visual and neurological development are also well documented. It has been shown to support maternal and childhood health and brain development, with DHA being more important in these earlier years. There’s even evidence they might responsible for protecting part of our DNA called telomeres, which are associated with longevity.


A global survey found the UK and the US to be among the countries with the lowest levels of anti-inflammatory omega 3.

Are you getting enough? If you’re eating oily fish 3 times per week (salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, herrings and trout) you may be. Keep in mind that farmed salmon may not be very high in this beneficial oil, wild salmon is a better bed. Nuts and seeds can be a good source, though many people are not good at converting these to the usable from, so it’s best not to rely on them as sole source. It’s still wise to have walnuts and flaxseeds in your diet, A blood test (looking at red blood cells, not serum) can tell what your levels are and whether you should be supplementing with fish or algae oil if following a vegan diet.

Interested in ordering a fingerpick test sent straight to your door?

The Omega-3 Index Complete Test measures all the fatty acids and reports levels of all 24 fatty acids, as well as the Omega-3 index, ratios, and the trans fats for just over £50 after our 20% discount has been added. We also offer 20% off high quality omega oil supplements- ratio of EPA/DHA matters for various health concerns and most common supplements have low levels and are poor quality. Get in touch if you would like advice on what supplement would be best for you.

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https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plipres.2016.05.001