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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Cardiovascular

Omega-3 Index

The Omega-3 Index is one of the most actionable cardiovascular markers — it responds well to dietary changes and provides clear risk stratification.

What It Measures

This test measures EPA and DHA as a percentage of total fatty acids in red blood cell membranes, reflecting omega-3 intake over the previous 2-3 months.

Why It Matters

An Omega-3 Index above 8% is generally associated with lower cardiovascular risk. Values below 4% may indicate increased risk. It is a modifiable marker that responds well to dietary changes. Consult your healthcare provider.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended as part of cardiovascular risk assessment, to evaluate omega-3 supplementation effectiveness, or to guide nutritional optimisation.

Symptoms

Low Levels

A low Omega-3 Index does not cause direct symptoms but may be associated with increased cardiovascular risk and a more pro-inflammatory state.

High Levels

A high Omega-3 Index is generally favourable and associated with cardiovascular protection. Very high levels are rare and not typically a concern.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Low omega-3 index increases cardiovascular risk. Consider fish oil supplementation or more oily fish.

If High

High omega-3 index is protective for heart health.

Female

If Low

Low omega-3 index increases cardiovascular risk. Consider fish oil supplementation or more oily fish.

If High

High omega-3 index is protective for heart health.

Lifestyle Tips

Eat fatty fish at least twice per week (salmon, mackerel, sardines). Consider a quality omega-3 supplement if dietary intake is insufficient. Results typically improve within 2-3 months of consistent intake changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good Omega-3 Index?
An Omega-3 Index of 8% or higher is generally considered optimal for cardiovascular protection. Below 4% is considered high risk. Your healthcare provider can interpret your specific result.
How quickly can I improve my Omega-3 Index?
With consistent dietary changes or supplementation, improvements may be seen within 2-3 months, as the test reflects red blood cell turnover.
Is the Omega-3 Index better than measuring blood omega-3?
The Omega-3 Index reflects long-term omega-3 status (similar to HbA1c for glucose), making it more stable and clinically useful than a single blood measurement.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

Whoop

A 44-biomarker comprehensive health panel inspired by WHOOP Advanced Labs — a deep look at metabolism, cardiovascular risk, hormones, liver, kidney and inflammation.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Total Testosterone Bicarbonate Calcium Chloride Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Omega-3 Index Total Cholesterol Albumin HOMA-IR ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Bilirubin (Total) Total Protein Urea (BUN) Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Transferrin Saturation Lipoprotein(a) Triglycerides Complete Blood Count (CBC)
€499,-