Omega-3 fatty acids, called the "essential" polyunsaturated fatty acids, are necessary for human health. Because your body can't produce them, you have to get them through food. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut, other seafoods including algae and krill, some plants, and nut oils.
These fats play a very important role in brain function, normal growth and development, reducing inflammation while lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and arthritis. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends eating fish (particularly fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon) at least 2 times a week.
Why measure your Omega-3 Index?
- Omega-3s are important for heart, brain, and joint health.
- Most Americans have low levels of omega-3s in their blood.
- Low levels of omega-3s are related to increased risk for fatal heart attack, depression, and possibly dementia.
- Blood levels of omega-3s can be improved by simple dietary changes.
The Omega-3 Index is a measure of omega-3 fatty acids, EPA+DHA, in red blood cells, which relates to risk for heart disease.
Included in the Omega-3 index is a full fatty acid profile, trans fat index, Omega-6/Omega-3 ratio, and AA/EPA ratio