Fatty Acid Analysis
Years of negative associations of dietary fat with calories, cholesterol, and even cancer, have resulted in the attitude among the general public and many medical professionals that fat should simply be avoided yet fatty acids of which fats are made up of are critical to normal human function,
Certain key essential fatty acids (EFA’s) are thought to be partially responsible for the development of the human brain in evolutionary terms, and the human capacity for creativity amongst other things
They are needed in constant supply and form powerful hormones, cell membranes, and are used as an efficient source of stored energy. . Deficiencies are now prevalent with modern diets being high in saturated and hydrogenated fats, but low in the many essential fats.
Symptoms associated with fatty acid imbalances
- Eczema-like skin eruptions
- Cracked/ dry skin including heels & fingertips
- Dry eyes/ increased thirst
- Dandruff, hair loss and lifeless hair
- Soft brittle nails
- Poor wound healing
- Frequent infections
- Depression, fatigue, irritability
- Decreased concentration
- Agoraphobia and panic attacks
- Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Autistic Spectrum Disorders•
- Allergies
- Cardiovascular disease
- High blood pressure
- Irritable Bowel Disease
- Difficulty losing weight
- Arthritis
- Liver/ kidney degeneration
- Sterility/ miscarriage
- PMS and painful breasts
The Omega-6/Omega-3 Ratio:
EFA imbalances have been cited by some experts as the most widespread nutritional problem in modern times.
The ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats has increased dramatically due to the widespread use of vegetable oils, rising from about 4:1 for Americans at the beginning of the twentieth century to about 20:1 at the present time.
Increased consumption of saturated fats and decreased consumption of omega-3 oils (cold water fish and flaxseed oil) have also contributed to the growing prevalence of these imbalances.
Some individuals with a healthy dietary balance of fatty acids may still have biochemical abnormalities that interfere with their ability to properly metabolise those fats. They may require more targeted supplementation.
What is being measured
This test measures the level of fatty acids in red blood cells.
24 Fatty Acids and 17 Fatty Acid Ratios:
Omega-6 and omega-3
polyunsaturated fatty acids
Saturated fatty acids
Monounsaturated fatty acids
Transisomers
Metabolic pathways
Fatty acid ratios and percent distribution within families
Specimen requirements
Blood sample
Before Taking this Test
Arrange test for Monday – Wednesday only
Fast overnight (at least 12 hours)
Eat light meals the day before
See instructions inside test kit for more details
Turnaround time
18 days
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