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 a vital Omega-3 fatty acid that plays an important role in supporting overall health. Primarily found in plant oils such as flaxseed, soybean, and canola, ALA promotes cardiovascular health and cognitive function, making it a crucial component 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 vital for brain function, muscle development, 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 helps regulate inflammation and may aid in maintaining cardiovascular health.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an essential Omega-3 fatty acid crucial for brain function, visual development, and inflammation control. Abundantly present in fish oils, DHA supports cognitive health in adults and plays a vital role in brain and eye development during infancy.
Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that plays an important role in supporting health, though it is less well-known than eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Found mainly in fish and seafood, DPA supports cardiovascular function, brain health, and overall well-being.
Eicosanoid balance reflects the ratio between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory lipid mediators derived from fatty acids. Eicosanoids, including prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, are produced from omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids and play key roles in inflammation, vascular tone, and immune regulation. A higher ratio may indicate increased omega-6-driven inflammatory activity, while a more balanced profile suggests adequate anti-inflammatory omega-3 influence. Maintaining a healthy eicosanoid balance supports cardiovascular health, immune resilience, and overall metabolic stability.
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an indicator that reflects the presence of an essential Omega-3 fatty acid in the body, primarily sourced from fish and seafood. EPA is recognised for its anti-inflammatory properties and plays a crucial role in supporting heart 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 support the management of conditions like eczema, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and arthritis.
Linoleic acid (LA) is an essential polyunsaturated Omega-6 fatty acid that plays a vital role in the body’s functions. Found in various vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds, LA is crucial 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 promote heart health, assist in managing cholesterol levels, and are regarded as a beneficial part of a balanced diet.
Myristic acid (C14:0) is a saturated fatty acid with a 14-carbon chain, commonly 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 like olive oil, avocados, and certain nuts. It plays a crucial role in supporting heart health, helping to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and is a key component of the Mediterranean diet.
The Omega-3 Index measures the proportion of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA found in the membranes of red blood cells. It is an important indicator of cardiovascular health and overall well-being, reflecting both the dietary consumption 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 associated with potential risks to heart health.
Palmitoleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that plays a role in metabolism and overall health. Though less common than other fatty acids, it is found in sources like macadamia nuts and certain fish. It is gaining attention for its potential benefits on insulin sensitivity and cholesterol regulation.
Polyunsaturated Omega-3 (PUFA ω-3) fatty acids are vital nutrients that promote overall health. They are mainly found in fish, seeds, and nuts and play a crucial role in brain function, heart health, and nervous system 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.