Omega 3 and Omega 6: Essential Fatty Acids

What are essential fatty acids (EFAs)?

Fatty acids that cannot be produced by our body but are crucial for our health are called essential fatty acids (EFA). There are two types of fatty acids, namely essential and non-essential, and your body can produce the non-essential fatty acids through the conversion of amino acids.

In terms of essential fatty acids, you can only get them directly through diet. There are two major types of essential fatty acids, which are linoleic acid (LA) (omega-6), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) (omega-3). These critical essential fatty acids are vital for hormone creation that regulate the CNS and immune systems.

That is why they are essential in nature, as they are an integral part of a healthy functioning body. If you are deficient in EFAs, then you need the right test and supplementation protocol. You can also analyse your diet to spot deficiencies that can be addressed with the right changes.

What are the symptoms of an Omega fatty acids deficiency?

There are several symptoms that you should be mindful of when understanding omega fatty acids deficiency. You can experience issues such as chronic fatigue, memory issues, heart palpitations, skin issues, mood management problems, and circulation issues. Essentially, if you have any issues with the cardiac system, then you should immediately get an omega 3 fatty acids test done.

What is an Omega 3 fatty acids?

Omega 3 fatty acids are a part of a family of essential fatty acids. They are present in foods like fish oils, flax seeds, chia seeds, flaxseed oil, and walnuts. They are also integral in the functioning of the cell membrane, while impacting the performance of cell receptors through membranes.

They are vital for hormonal development to optimize contraction of arterial walls, clotting, and inflammation. The eicosanoids from omega-3 fatty acids are vital for overall healthy heart functioning. The function of omega 3s are also integral to genetic receptor cells, and are essential for preventing strokes, heart disease, and cardiac issues. They are also important in controlling lupus, eczema, arthritis, and other chronic illnesses.

How do I improve essential fatty acids levels?

With a comprehensive Essential Fatty acids test, you can find out your core Omega 3, 6 and other levels. While diet isn't the only factor that determines your fatty acids levels, there are other factors such as metabolism, gender, age, genetics, body mass, and lifestyle. You can focus on transforming your dietary intake and supplementation, so that you can improve your essential fatty acid levels in the body.

What are the benefits of Omega 3 supplementation?

One of the most important benefits of optimizing your Omega 3 intake through supplementation is its impact on heart disease. Your risk for different forms of cardiac issues declines when you have sufficient omega ratios. Through the right supplementation strategies, you can improve your heart function and manage cardiac issues over time.

You should take the right omega 3 supplements that can cover other essential acids as well. The right supplements of omega 3 fats can help you prevent cardiac problems while giving you protection against many chronic illnesses. 

How do we know what is the correct dosage of omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids?

The correct dosages and recommended daily requirements are based on healthy functioning of different components. When doctors and researchers think about how we reviewed this article or how a research paper is analysed, they follow it up with clinical studies. The impact of deficiencies at various stages is also prioritized in different trials when creating recommended dosages of different fatty acids.

What is the source of omega 3 fatty acid?

Omega 3 Fatty acids can be found in foods like  fish oils, flax seeds, chia seeds, flaxseed oil, and walnuts.

Why is docosahexaenoic acid important?

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is required for the growth and development of our brain tissue, especially in infants. DHA is also important for improving learning ability and its deficiency might cause learning difficulties.

What are omega 6 fatty acids?

Omega 6 Fatty acids are a part of the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). They are common in processed foods like fast foods and fried foods.

Do omega 6 fatty acids reduce inflammation?

No Omega 6 fatty acids do not reduce inflammation, However, omega 3 fatty acids have anti inflammatory effect

what is eicosapentaenoic acid?

eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega 3 fatty acid and is commonly present in flesh of fish and fish oils.

How much DHA and EPA is required daily for optimal health?

It is important to consume 250-500 mg of combination of EPA and DHA per day as a part of a healthy diet. You should focus on getting your essential fatty acids through dietary measures, helping you ensure optimal health and wellbeing. Since the body doesn't directly produce essential fatty acids, it is important to get them from the right dietary measures. 

What is the cost of essential acids omega 3 and 6 test?

The price of omega 3 and omega 6 test is INR 2900 in India. You can buy omega 3 test at home in India through MyDiagnostics with ease. You can also benefit from at-home sample collection, direct email reporting, and testing in an NABL accredited laboratory.

You will receive your report within 8-10 days, giving you complete clarity on your essential fatty acids profile. You can buy omega fatty acids test with ease at INR 2900, inclusive of 31 critical parameters.

• Fatty acids  (EPA, DHA, GLA) are essential for Lowering LDL and increasing HDL cholesterol; decreases blood clotting time, anti-arrhythmic, anti-inflammatory effect that benefits heart tissue, structural in brain and retinal tissue and play a role in treatment for autoimmune disorders, kidney disease, and skin integrity.
• This Omega 3 and Omega 6 test is a home based blood test that tests for omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 6 fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, saturated fatty acids, trans fatty and important risks and ratios from the blood sample

• Individuals with known cardiovascular diseases
• Individuals with known risks for cardiovascular diseases
• Individuals interested in nutritional testing for overall health

• A 12-24 hour fasting period is recommended before sample collection
• Do not consume alcohol 24 hours prior testing
• Do not engage in heavy exercise 12 hours before testing.