CLast reviewed
The Omega-3 Index
A plausible, measurable biomarker based mostly on observational data.
Editorial section. Research summaries are not product claims and contain no product links or offers. A summary is never proof that any product works.
- The question
- What is the Omega-3 Index and why do some experts track it?
- Study design
- Proposal paper (2004) defining the index as EPA plus DHA as a percentage of red blood cell fatty acids. [1]
- What they found
- The authors proposed 8% or higher as a target associated with the lowest coronary risk and 4% or lower with the highest, based on epidemiology. A blood test can show whether intake is reaching the range people aim for. [1]
- Limitations
- Association does not prove that raising the index lowers risk. Target ranges come from observational studies.
- What this does not mean
- A higher index is a marker of intake, not a guarantee of heart health.
- Sources
- Harris WS, von Schacky C. Prev Med. 2004;39(1):212-220. doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2004.02.030
Where it is discussed on podcasts
Verified episodes. Hosts and guests do not endorse Everstack. Podcast index
- Huberman Lab: Dr. Rhonda Patrick: Micronutrients for Health & Longevity (2022-05-02)
- FoundMyFitness: #068 Dr. Bill Harris on the Omega-3 Index: Increasing Omega-3 to Promote Longevity & Transform Health (2021-09-10)
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