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Cardiovascular

Omega-3 Index

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.

What It 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.

Why It 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.

When to Test

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

Symptoms

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.

Recommendations

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.

Lifestyle Tips

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.

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.

Tests with related values

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

Omega-3 Index

€163,-