Fatty Acids
Our Fatty Acid tests provide a detailed look into your body’s fat composition. Understanding the balance of saturated, unsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids is crucial for heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Each fatty acid tested is listed below with comprehensive information.
Fatty Acids
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an essential Omega-3 fatty acid that plays a key role in maintaining overall health. Found primarily in plant oils such as linseed, soybean, and rapeseed, ALA supports cardiovascular function and cognitive well-being, making it an important part of a balanced diet.
Arachidonic acid (AA) is a long-chain Omega-6 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in inflammation and cell signalling. Found in foods such as meat, eggs, and dairy, AA is essential for brain function, muscle growth, and overall health, with a complex impact on both normal physiology and disease processes.
Dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) is an Omega-6 fatty acid derived from gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and acts as a precursor to key eicosanoids. DGLA contributes to the regulation of inflammation and may help support cardiovascular health.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a vital Omega-3 fatty acid essential for brain function, visual development, and the regulation of inflammation. Abundantly found in fish oils, DHA supports cognitive health in adults and plays a crucial role in brain and eye development during infancy.
Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that plays a significant role in supporting health, although it is less well-known than eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Found primarily in fish and seafood, DPA supports cardiovascular function, brain health, and overall well-being.
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a measure indicating the presence of an essential Omega-3 fatty acid in the body, primarily derived from fish and seafood. EPA is recognised for its anti-inflammatory properties and plays a crucial role in supporting cardiovascular health and maintaining a balanced range of bodily functions.
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is a type of Omega-6 fatty acid found in certain plant-based oils, such as evening primrose and borage oil. Unlike most Omega-6 fatty acids, GLA has anti-inflammatory properties and may help manage conditions like eczema, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and arthritis.
Linoleic acid (LA) is an essential polyunsaturated Omega-6 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in the body’s functions. Present in many vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds, LA is important for maintaining healthy cell membranes and helps regulate inflammatory processes.
Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) are a type of healthy fat mainly found in plant-based oils, nuts, seeds, and avocados. Characterised by a single double bond in their structure, MUFAs support heart health, help regulate cholesterol levels, and are considered a beneficial part of a balanced diet.
Myristic acid (C14:0) is a saturated fatty acid with a 14-carbon chain, found in animal fats, dairy products, and certain plant oils. It plays a role in various biological functions but is also known to increase cholesterol levels when consumed in excess.
Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid found abundantly in foods such as olive oil, avocados, and certain nuts. It plays an important role in supporting heart health, helping to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and is a key component of the Mediterranean diet.
The Omega-3 Index is a measurement that reflects the proportion of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in the membranes of red blood cells. It acts as a key indicator of cardiovascular health and overall well-being, showing both the dietary intake of omega-3s and their incorporation into cell structures.
Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid commonly found in both animal and plant sources. As the most abundant saturated fat in the human body and diet, it plays important roles in energy storage and cellular function. However, excessive intake of palmitic acid has been linked to potential risks to heart health.
Palmitoleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that contributes to metabolism and overall health. Although less common than other fatty acids, it is found in sources such as macadamia nuts and certain fish. It is increasingly recognised for its potential benefits on insulin sensitivity and cholesterol balance.
Polyunsaturated Omega-3 (PUFA ω-3) fatty acids are essential nutrients that support overall human health. They are particularly found in fish, seeds, and nuts and play a key role in brain function, cardiovascular health, and neurological development.
Polyunsaturated Omega-6 fatty acids are essential fats that support brain function, growth, and development. Found in plant oils, nuts, and seeds, they contribute to cellular health, help regulate inflammation, and promote cardiovascular well-being.
Saturated fatty acids are a type of dietary fat commonly found in animal products and certain plant oils. They contain no double bonds in their structure, which makes them solid at room temperature. Their impact on health is multifaceted, with effects that can be beneficial or harmful depending on overall intake and dietary context.