Fatty Acid Balance

This test measures major plasma fatty acids and explicitly reports an Omega-3 Fatty Acid Index (along with an Omega-6 Fatty Acid Index, EPA/AA ratio, Omega-3/Omega-6 ratio, and levels of EPA, DHA, ALA, etc.). It also includes indices for saturated fats, trans fats, monounsaturated fats, and unsaturated/saturated ratios. This is designed for cardiovascular risk assessment and dietary guidance, with reference ranges for the Omega-3 Index (e.g., >4.50% optimal in some contexts).

Fatty acid balance reflects your body's ability to mobilize and use fats for energy during exercise and recovery. Athletes benefit from monitoring this marker because optimal fat metabolism supports endurance performance, reduces reliance on carbohydrate stores, and may indicate whether training is promoting efficient aerobic adaptation or metabolic stress.