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, crucial for human health. Found in plant oils like flaxseed, soybean, and canola, ALA is a vital component of a balanced diet and plays a significant role in cardiovascular and cognitive health....
Arachidonic acid (AA) is a long-chain polyunsaturated Omega-6 fatty acid, pivotal in inflammatory responses and cellular signaling. Found in meat, eggs, and dairy products, AA is integral for brain function and muscle growth, playing a complex role in health and disease....
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, crucial for brain health, vision, and the regulation of inflammatory processes. Abundant in fish oils, DHA is essential for optimal brain development in infants and maintaining cognitive function in adults....
Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is a long-chain Omega-3 fatty acid less known than EPA and DHA but plays a significant role in health. Found in fish and seafood, DPA contributes to cardiovascular, cognitive, and overall health....
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 beneficial Omega-6 fatty acid found in certain plant-based oils. Unlike other Omega-6 fatty acids, GLA is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is used in managing conditions like eczema, PMS, and arthritis....
Linoleic acid (LA) is an essential polyunsaturated Omega-6 fatty acid, integral to various bodily functions. Found in many vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds, LA is crucial for maintaining healthy cell membranes and plays a role in the body's inflammatory processes....
Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) are healthy fats found predominantly in plant-based oils, nuts, and seeds. Characterized by one double bond in their molecular structure, MUFAs are known for their beneficial effects on heart health and cholesterol levels, making them a recommended part of a balanced diet....
Myristic acid, a saturated fatty acid with a 14-carbon chain, is found in various animal fats, dairy products, and some plant oils. It plays a role in various biological processes but is also noted for its influence on increasing cholesterol levels when consumed in large amounts....
Oleic acid is a prominent monounsaturated fatty acid, abundant in various foods like olive oil, avocados, and some nuts. Recognized for its heart-healthy properties, oleic acid is a key component of the Mediterranean diet, lauded for its benefits on cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health....
The Omega-3 Index is a blood test that measures the percentage of Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, in red blood cell membranes. It's an important indicator of heart health and overall wellness, reflecting dietary intake of omega-3s and their incorporation into cell membranes....
Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid commonly found in both animals and plants. As the most common saturated fat in the human body and diet, it's integral to various biological functions but has been scrutinized for its potential impact on heart health when consumed in excess....
Palmitoleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid recognized for its role in metabolism and potential health benefits. It's less common than other fatty acids, found in sources like macadamia nuts and some fish, and is gaining interest for its potential effects on insulin sensitivity and cholesterol levels....
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 fat found in various foods, including animal products and some plant oils. Unlike unsaturated fats, they have no double bonds in their chemical structure, making them solid at room temperature. Their role in health is complex, with both beneficial and potentially harmful effects depending on the context and consumption levels....