Biomarkers > Cardiovascular > Omega 6/Omega 3 Ratio

Omega 6/Omega 3 Ratio (ratio)

Cardiovascular

About Omega 6/Omega 3 Ratio

The Omega 6/Omega 3 ratio represents the balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in the body. Both are essential polyunsaturated fats that play key roles in numerous bodily functions, including inflammation modulation, heart health, and brain function. A high ratio is typically associated with increased inflammation and a higher risk of chronic diseases.

Reference Values

Optimal Range
1.0 - 4.0 ratio
Women's Optimal Range
1.0 - 4.0 ratio
Elite Value
3.0 ratio

Health Implications

High
Elevated levels may indicate an increased risk of inflammation and chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
Low
Low levels may be associated with impaired cell membrane function and inadequate inflammatory responses, potentially affecting brain health and wound healing.

Symptoms

High
May include fatigue, headaches, bloating, increased hunger, inflammation, and weight gain.
Low
Can include dizziness, weakness, dry skin, brittle nails, and poor concentration.

Lifestyle Factors

Increase intake of fatty fish (e.g. salmon mackerel) Use olive and avocado oils instead of vegetable oils high in Omega-6 Incorporate nuts and seeds like flax and chia into diet Prioritize grass-fed or pasture-raised meat Limit processed and fast foods Ensure adequate sleep and manage stress effectively

Specimen Type

Blood Plasma Blood Serum Red Blood Cells

Testing Methods

Blood Test Finger Stick Test Dried Blood Spot Test
Also Known As
Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratioOmega-6/Omega-3 fatty acid ratioO6/O3 ratioOmega-3 index

Scientific Sources

  1. Simopoulos, A. P. (2020). The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids. *Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy*, 123, 109991.
  2. Patterson, E., Wall, R., Fitzgerald, G. F., Ross, R. P., & Stanton, C. (2012). Health implications of high dietary omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. *Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism*, 2012, 539426.
  3. Harris, W. S., Mozaffarian, D., Rimm, E., Kris-Etherton, P., Rudel, L. L., Appel, L. J., Engler, M. M., Engler, M. B., & Sacks, F. (2009). Omega-6 fatty acids and risk for cardiovascular disease: a science advisory from the American Heart Association Nutrition Subcommittee of the Council on Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Metabolism; Council on Cardiovascular Nursing; and Council on Epidemiology and Prevention. *Circulation*, 119(6), 902–907.
  4. Calder, P. C. (2015). Marine omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: Effects, mechanisms and clinical relevance. *Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids*, 1851(4), 469–484.
  5. Innes, J. K., & Calder, P. C. (2018). Omega-6 fatty acids and inflammation. *Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids*, 132, 41–48.

Related Biomarkers

Triglycerides, Omega3 Index, hsCRP, LDL Cholesterol, Total Cholesterol

Testing Information

Looking to get your Omega 6/Omega 3 Ratio tested? Find labs near you that offer this test.

Find Testing Locations