Lab test
Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids Test
The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids test measures levels of these essential fats in the blood.
- Typical price
- From $129
- Results
- 1-3 business days
- Preparation
- See preparation notes below
- Sample
- Blood draw or sample collection at a local center
About this test
The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids test measures levels of these essential fats in the blood. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that the body needs but cannot make in sufficient amounts, so they must come from the diet. They are involved in heart, brain, and eye health, and in regulating inflammation. The test may be ordered to assess dietary fat intake and the balance between omega-3 and omega-6. Results are interpreted with your diet and overall health.
What this test measures
- Omega-3 fatty acids Measures fats such as EPA, DHA, and ALA that support heart, brain, and eye health.
- Omega-6 fatty acids Measures fats such as linoleic and arachidonic acid involved in energy and inflammation.
- Omega-3 to omega-6 ratio Compares the two groups to help assess dietary balance.
Who this test may be right for
- People wanting to assess their dietary fat intake
- Individuals with heart or metabolic conditions being evaluated
- People considering or taking omega-3 supplements
- Those with dietary patterns that may be low in omega-3
Before your visit
- Fasting is often requested before the draw.
- Tell the collector about omega-3 or fish oil supplements you take.
- Follow any instructions provided for your specific panel.
Understanding your results
Results reflect levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fats and their balance. A low omega-3 level may relate to low dietary intake, while a high omega-6 relative to omega-3 may reflect dietary patterns. Supplement use can raise omega-3 levels. Discuss results with a healthcare provider, who can interpret them with your diet and health history.
Order this test online
- Buy online in a few minutes - no doctor's visit needed for most tests.
- Sample collection at a patient service center near you.
- Results are typically ready within 1-3 business days.
- Secure, lab-reviewed results delivered to your account.
Affiliate link: we may earn a commission from orders placed through it, at no extra cost to you.
Related tests
Amino Acids Blood Test - 34 Amino Acids
This blood test panel can help discover deficiencies in amino acids.
View testAmino Acids Urine Test - 36 Amino Acids
This urine test panel can help discover deficiencies in amino acids.
View testGlucose 6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Test, Quantitative
Order Glucose 6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Test, Quantitative.com online through our partner...
View testHeavy Metal Toxicity Lab Test - 6 Common Heavy Metals Levels
This urine test includes measuring levels of the following 6 heavy metals: Arsenic, Cadmium,...
View testFind this test in your state
Questions people ask
What do omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids do?
They are essential fats involved in heart, brain, and eye health and in regulating inflammation. They must come from the diet because the body cannot make enough on its own.
Why measure the omega-3 to omega-6 ratio?
The ratio gives a sense of dietary balance between these fat groups. A provider interprets it alongside your diet rather than as a stand-alone number.
Can fish oil supplements affect the test?
Yes. Omega-3 supplements such as fish oil can raise measured omega-3 levels, so tell the collector what you take and follow any preparation instructions.
Do I need to fast for an omega fatty acid test?
Fasting is often requested because recent meals can affect blood fat levels. Follow the specific instructions provided for your panel.
What does the Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids Test measure?
Order Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids Test.com online through our partner and visit a local lab near you.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Follow the lab's instructions.
How long do results take?
Most Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids Test results are released in 1-3 business days. Specialty testing can take longer.
Is this test right for me?
This page is educational and not medical advice. Talk to a licensed healthcare provider about which tests fit your situation.
LabBookings is an independent directory. We compare test details and pricing information, but we are not a laboratory and we do not perform testing or provide medical advice. Always talk to a licensed healthcare provider about your results and treatment.
Laboratory services are provided by independent, CLIA-certified testing partners. Availability, pricing, and turnaround times can vary by location and are confirmed at checkout.