Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are polyunsaturated long chain fatty acids (PUFA) required for the body to function, but have opposite effects when it comes to inflammatory response and cardiovascular health. An imbalance between the two may increase the risk for many diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA, and DPA) While omega-6 fatty acids are also essential because they are involved in many physiological processes, excess omega-6 fatty acids leads hyper-immune and inflammatory responses. Many chronic conditions like CVD, cancer, diabetes, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, and asthma are associated with high levels of omega-6 fatty acids. An adequate level of omega-3 fatty acids can reduce this risk. This Omega Health Test is a great complement to conventional cardiovascular risk assessment tests such as hs-CRP, lipoprotein(a),
and lipid profiles.

           
              The omega-3 fatty acids, which are primarily obtained from food sources,
such as oily fish as well as plant sources in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), provide many health benefits with regard to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-thrombotic effects. They also can help to reduce triglyceride levels. 
The omega-6 fatty acids, two main types include arachidonic acid (AA) and linoleic acid (LA). They are obtained from animal sources such as animal fats and plant sources such as plant oils and have pro-inflammatory, and pro-thrombotic effects at high levels.
Clinical Significance
           Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, asthma, age-related conditions as well as cancers.
Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids also help to reduce triglycerides and
non-HDL lipoproteins.
          Omega-6 fatty acids are pro-inflammatory at high levels, and a high intake of them can interfere with the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids from food.
The mean omega-6/omega-3 ratio of the standard diet is between 10:1 – 15:1
depending on the areas. The ratio of omega-6/omega-3 of 4:1 or less may reduce
the risk of chronic diseases.