Description

THE IMPORTANCE OF TESTING for Omega 3 fatty acid levels

In adults, higher blood levels of EPA/DHA omega-3 have been associated with a significantly lower risk for psychological distress, depression, cognitive impairment, age-related dementia, certain cancers and various other disorders.

The OmegaScore® is a very strong indicator of the risk for sudden cardiac death based on published studies from the Harvard School of Public Health in the New England Journal of Medicine.1 Furthermore, a high OmegaScore® is related to a reduced risk for “all-cause mortality”2 and “cognitive deterioration with aging”3; all of which will be provided to you in an easy to interpret report.

If the lab results indicate a low OmegaScore®, individuals can initiate an increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids from food sources (e.g. fish/seafood) and/or supplements containing EPA/DHA.

If the latter intake modifications are done on a regular basis, one can expect their OmegaScore® to be favourably altered to be in the low risk zone for the above health conditions. Re-testing  an be done after 4-8 weeks to confirm entry into the “low risk” zones.

SCREENING

OmegaScore® personalized omega-3 testing, which involves a specialized paper strip technology, was developed by Lipid Analytical Laboratories (LAL) in Guelph, ON, Canada and can be ordered through CanAlt Health Laboratories in cooperation with Synergy Nutrition. The whole blood OmegaScore® test measures the long chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DPA (docosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) from the sample provided as a percentage of the total fatty acids measured in your blood sample

RESULTS YOU CAN UNDERSTAND

The OmegaScore® report is not intended as a medical report or medical advice from Lipid Analytical Laboratory, LLC. It is solely a measurement and calculation of various fatty acids based on the samples provided. “Risk Levels” are intended as reference of measurement compared to recent academic research studies. Results will show patient numbers compared to averages and optimal levels, allowing for the correction of any deficiencies through diet and/or supplementation. Re-testing thereafter (normally 4-8 weeks later) can be done to confirm that the recommended levels have been reached.

HOW TO TAKE A SAMPLE

A sample collection kit includes full instructions, any ancillary items required (such as a lancet and alcohol wipe) and most importantly the collection card with OmegaScore® paperstrip technology. A few drops of blood is required and is easily obtained from a painless prick on the finger or thumb using the lancet provided in the collection kit