Fatty Acid Testing in Edmonton

The Role of Fatty Acids in Your Health

Fatty acids are essential building blocks of cell membranes and play a key role in cell communication, brain function, and inflammation control. Since the body cannot produce essential fatty acids on its own, they must come from diet or supplementation. An imbalance in fatty acids can contribute to various health conditions, making testing an important step in maintaining optimal health.

Health Conditions Linked to Fatty Acid Imbalances

Heart Disease – Optimizing omega-3 levels has been shown to reduce heart attack risk and support cardiovascular health.

Aging – A high omega-3 index is linked to slower aging and improved cellular function.

Cancer – Maintaining a proper balance between AA (omega-6) and EPA (omega-3) may help reduce the risk of colorectal, lung, and breast cancer.

Diabetes – A high AA to EPA ratio is associated with a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Skin Conditions – EPA has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin.

Depression – Low omega-3 levels are linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression.

Rheumatoid Arthritis – Adjusting AA to EPA ratios has been shown to reduce joint pain and inflammation.

Why Get Tested?

Many people assume they need omega-3 supplementation, but without testing, it’s impossible to know whether you’re getting the right balance or consuming too many unhealthy fats. Testing helps:

• Determine if you are getting enough omega-3s.
• Identify excess levels of omega-6, which can contribute to inflammation.
• Assess whether saturated fats and trans fats are negatively impacting your health.

What Does the Fatty Acid Test Measure?

Firstline Nutrition’s Fatty Acid Profile Test evaluates key markers to help assess and optimize your health:

• Omega-3 Index – Measures EPA and DHA levels in red blood cells, essential for cell function and heart health.
• Omega-3 Whole Blood Score – Reports overall omega-3 levels; low scores are associated with a higher risk of sudden heart attack.
• AA to EPA Ratio – Indicates inflammation levels and determines if omega-3 supplementation is needed.
• Saturated & Trans Fat Levels – Identifies unhealthy fat intake and how it may be affecting your health.

Sources of Omega-3s: How to Improve Your Fatty Acid Balance

Plant-Based Sources: Flaxseed, chia seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds provide ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), a precursor to EPA and DHA.

Fish & Marine Sources: Cold-water fish like salmon, sardines, trout, and mackerel are rich in EPA and DHA, making them the best dietary sources of omega-3s.

Fish Oil Supplements: A high-quality fish oil supplement can help maintain optimal omega-3 levels. Look for IFOS-certified (International Fish Oil Standards) products to ensure purity.

Take Control of Your Health with Omega Testing

Fatty acid balance plays a crucial role in inflammation, heart health, brain function, and disease prevention. Testing allows you to make informed dietary choices and optimize supplementation for better health.

Call (587) 805-1520 to schedule your Omega Test today.