Dear Jen,
Omega-3s play an important role in cardiovascular, reproductive, cognitive, and emotional health, and are linked to improved mortality and healthier aging. Omega-3s can be found in fish (EPA and DHA) and in plant oils such as flaxseed and soybean (ALA). The omega-3s found in omega-3s found in fish (EPA and DHA) (EPA and DHA) have been linked to the most health benefits. These benefits include a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, depression, asthma, inflammation, and cancer. Omega-3s can also help treat symptoms of lupus, arthritis, and dry eye disease.
Since mid-2017, GrassrootsHealth has offered a home blood spot test for the Omega-3 Index, a measurement of the amount of EPA and DHA in red blood cell (RBC) membranes. This measurement reflects long-term (about four months) intake of EPA and DHA from food and supplements. Evidence suggests that achieving an Omega-3 Index of at least 8% is optimal for health whereas an index of less than 4% is deficient, particularly as it relates to cardiovascular disease.
Have you taken advantage of the home blood spot test to measure your omega-3 status through GrassrootsHealth? Do you know what steps you want to take after receiving your results? Do you know if the steps you have been taking are working?
Measuring your omega-3 status using the Omega-3 Index can give you a clear picture of whether or not you are getting enough omega-3 fatty acids on a regular basis. Including the AA:EPA and Omega-6:Omega-3 Ratios can help you determine if you are getting a good balance of anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory fatty acids, and whether decreasing the intake of omega-6 fatty acids may also be necessary for improving your health. Utilizing these tests together can also provide guidance to specific dietary changes that could support improvements in chronic inflammation and disease.
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