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Cardiovascular

Omega-3 Index Test

The Omega-3 Index reflects your long-term omega-3 status, which may support cardiovascular protection, mood balance, and healthy pregnancy outcomes.

Doctor's Assessment Included

When is this value abnormal?

Decision limits per result, in % fs ges.
Result Value (% fs ges.)
Deficiency < 4
Insufficient 4–8
Target met ≥ 8

De Omega-3 Index meet EPA en DHA als percentage van de totale vetzuren in erytrocytenmembranen. Het laboratorium hanteert dezelfde grenzen op uw uitslag: < 4,0 geringe cardioprotectie, 4,0–8,0 matige, > 8,0 goede. De streefwaarde uit de literatuur is 8–11 %; het Nederlandse gemiddelde is 6,06 % (n=1.974), dus onder de streefwaarde. De grenzen gelden alleen voor de gestandaardiseerde meting in erytrocyten — een meting in serum of plasma is niet met deze waarden te vergelijken.

Source: Netherlands Heart Journal Reference population: Nederlandse bevolking (Neth Heart J 2023, n=1.974; gemiddelde 6,06 %)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Omega-3 Index: what this test measures

This test measures EPA and DHA as a percentage of total fatty acids in red blood cell membranes, reflecting omega-3 intake over the previous 2-3 months.

Omega-3 Index: why this value matters

An Omega-3 Index above 8% is generally associated with lower cardiovascular risk. Values below 4% may indicate increased risk. It is a modifiable marker that responds well to dietary changes. Consult your healthcare provider.

Omega-3 Index: when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended as part of cardiovascular risk assessment, to evaluate omega-3 supplementation effectiveness, or to guide nutritional optimisation.

Omega-3 Index: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

A low Omega-3 Index does not cause direct symptoms but may be associated with increased cardiovascular risk and a more pro-inflammatory state.

High Levels

A high Omega-3 Index is generally favourable and associated with cardiovascular protection. Very high levels are rare and not typically a concern.

Omega-3 Index: what to do about an abnormal value

Female

If Low

Low omega-3 index increases cardiovascular risk. Consider fish oil supplementation or more oily fish.

If High

High omega-3 index is protective for heart health.

Omega-3 Index: lifestyle and this value

Eat fatty fish at least twice per week (salmon, mackerel, sardines). Consider a quality omega-3 supplement if dietary intake is insufficient. Results typically improve within 2-3 months of consistent intake changes.

Omega-3 Index: frequently asked questions

What is a good Omega-3 Index?

An Omega-3 Index of 8% or higher is generally considered optimal for cardiovascular protection. Below 4% is considered high risk. Your healthcare provider can interpret your specific result.

How quickly can I improve my Omega-3 Index?

With consistent dietary changes or supplementation, improvements may be seen within 2-3 months, as the test reflects red blood cell turnover.

Is the Omega-3 Index better than measuring blood omega-3?

The Omega-3 Index reflects long-term omega-3 status (similar to HbA1c for glucose), making it more stable and clinically useful than a single blood measurement.

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Tests with related values

These panels measure values from the same category as this marker.

Medical reviewer

Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
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Omega-3 Index

€163,-