Omega-3 Test

What are omega-3 fatty acids and why are they important? Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are essential for the human body but cannot be produced by the body itself. They are mainly found in fatty fish, vegetable oils and some nuts and seeds.

Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in the development and function of the brain and in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Many people do not consume enough omega-3 fatty acids. This deficiency is particularly widespread in Western societies. Most people do not know whether they are sufficiently supplied with omega-3 or not. While omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect, omega-6 fatty acids can support pro-inflammatory processes. Therefore, a balanced omega-3/6 ratio is important for our body to reduce certain health risks.

Studies have shown that a higher ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 can be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. By measuring your omega-3/6 ratio, you can therefore take steps to minimize this risk. Especially if you are vegetarian or vegan, you should pay attention to your omega-3 intake, as these diets generally contain less omega-3 fatty acids. This also applies to pregnant and breastfeeding women, who should be aware of their omega-3 intake, as this is essential for the development of the fetus and the baby.

In addition, people who are already taking omega-3 supplements can use the omega-3 test to check their effectiveness and, if necessary, adjust their diet or supplementation accordingly. Measuring your omega-3 index is therefore more than just a simple health check-up; it gives you a deep insight into the complex biochemistry of your body.

A comprehensive view of your omega-3 levels can help uncover hidden factors that other tests may miss and give you the opportunity to create a personalized plan to optimize your health. Because it doesn’t help to just assume. Only consistent and comprehensive testing will bring comprehensive results.

The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, similar to our hormones, play a crucial role in our physical and mental well-being and have a significant impact on our ageing process. The level of the HS-Omega-3 Index® varies from person to person and depends not only on diet, but also on genes, body volume and other factors.

Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, their ability to promote heart health and their positive effects on brain health. Omega-6 fatty acids, on the other hand, can support pro-inflammatory processes. A healthy heart is an essential prerequisite for a long life. An unbalanced intake of omega-6 compared to omega-3 can therefore contribute to chronic inflammation, which has been linked to a number of health problems, including heart disease and accelerated ageing.

Researchers believe that our ancestors had a diet with a ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 of about 1:1. Today, however, the ratio is more likely to be 15:1 or higher, which is due to an excessive intake of omega-6 and an insufficient intake of omega-3.

An adequate supply of omega-3 therefore reduces the risk of heart attack, cardiovascular disease and the associated mortality. An adequate supply of DHA and EPA, which are found in the membranes of cells in the body and control their function, is particularly important for the brain.

DHA, which is particularly present in the gray matter of the brain, influences many processes such as the release of neurotransmitters, signal transduction or gene expression. An adequate intake of DHA may be a biologically plausible way to prevent neurodegenerative diseases.

Note: A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are important overall to slow down the ageing process and reduce the risk of age-related diseases.

The HS-Omega-3 Index® was developed in 2002 by Prof. Dr. W.S. Harris, Stanford University, USA and Prof. Dr. C. von Schacky, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Germany, in accordance with strict EU criteria and bears the CE seal. CE stands for “Conformité Européenne” and indicates that a product may be marketed within the European Economic Area. These two scientists have done extensive work to standardize the measurement methodology so that it now meets the highest quality criteria of clinical chemistry (constancy tests, plausibility tests, round robin tests, quality management, etc.).

More than 250 publications in international journals are based on the HS-Omega-3 Index®, and around 50 research projects are underway around the world. In addition to the standardized methodology, this uniquely comprehensive scientific database is the basis for the use of the HS-Omega-3 Index® in routine clinical diagnostics.

The HS-Omega-3 Index® is therefore a unique, revolutionary measuring instrument that precisely shows the omega-3 fatty acid supply level by analyzing the red blood cells. Its significance and informative value surpasses that of other fatty acid analyses, as it is the only instrument that allows the measurement results to be clearly interpreted. Omega-3 fatty acids can provide many benefits and contribute to the development of vision in infants and play a crucial role in the normal development of the brain and eyes of the fetus and breastfed child. Despite the high fat intake in Germany, DHA and EPA, two important omega-3 fatty acids, are often neglected. This is where the HS-Omega-3 Index® comes into play.

Thanks to its comprehensive and robust analysis of fatty acid values, it offers a deep insight into the supply status of these essential fatty acids. It has been confirmed in 266 scientific publications to date and has been described by researchers as the gold standard in fatty acid diagnostics. The omega-3 test is carried out in the leading European specialist laboratory for fatty acid analysis and follows a strictly standardized method. Instead of interpreting individual fatty acid values, the omega-3 test provides a holistic analysis, measures 26 fatty acid values and provides a detailed and comprehensible report that offers an excellent basis for nutritional advice.

In each case, the goal is to restore the omega-3/6 balance as needed to enhance health and well-being. Ultimately, it’s about providing not just data, but practical, actionable solutions that can make a real difference in your life.

The patent-pending HS-Omega-3 Index® is measured in red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, according to the strictly standardized method of Harris and von Schacky.

Unfortunately, the term “Omega-3 Index®” could not be protected. As a result, others now offer an “Omega-3 Index”. However, these are often not measured in erythrocytes and other measurement methods are used, which lead to very different results. As no scientific evidence can be provided, these measurements are generally of no value.

Using the latest technology, we analyze with Omegametrix, the leading European laboratory for fatty acid analysis and rely on state-of-the-art technology to analyze your personal HS-Omega-3 Index® and additionally measure 24 other fatty acid values. Precision is our top priority. The measurements undergo strict quality checks and are certified by the DIN ISO 15189 quality assurance system. This ensures that you always receive the most accurate and reliable results.

About two weeks after we receive your blood sample, you will receive your results in the form of a proprietary Omega-3 report. Before that, a lot happens behind the scenes.

Week 1: Fatty acid extraction

We extract the fatty acids from the membrane of your erythrocytes (red blood cells) from the blood sample provided to determine the levels of the various fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6.

Week 1-2: Creating a fatty acid profile

Your individual fatty acid profile is then created using the latest technology. This process requires a highly specialized technique that is usually only used for research purposes.

Week 2: Calculation of the Omega-3 Index®

Your personal HS-Omega-3 Index® is then calculated on the basis of your fatty acid profile. This value is also compared with the average values of comparable groups of people of your age and gender.

Week 2+: Results announcement

After a careful analysis period of about two weeks, you will receive your individual omega-3 report. Use your results to achieve a balanced omega-3/6 ratio and support your health.