Omega-3 Complete Report
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Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051
Status Reference: Low Suboptimal Optimal Elevated High
Your Omega-3 Index
5.32%
SUBOPTIMAL
Recommendation: 980 mg/day of EPA+DHA from dietary and supplementation sources
5.32%
2.8%4%8% 12%14%15.4%
Optimal
Reference ranges: 2.8 – 15.4%. Optimal range: 8 – 12%.
Reference ranges encompass 99% of fatty acid levels measured in adult populations.
Understanding Your Omega-3 Index Zones
LOW
Below 4%
Increased health risk. Omega-3 intake through diet and supplementation is strongly recommended.
SUBOPTIMAL
4 – 8%
Moderate risk. Dietary improvements and supplementation recommended.
OPTIMAL
8 – 12%
Associated with improved cardiovascular, brain, eye, and joint health, and reduced inflammation.
ELEVATED
12 – 14%
Above optimal. Review supplementation dose with your healthcare provider.
HIGH
Above 14%
Unusually high. Consider reducing omega-3 supplementation.
Summary
Current Level
5.32% Omega-3 Index
Red blood cell EPA + DHA
Optimal Range
8 – 12% Index
Target for optimal health
Current Status
Suboptimal
Below optimal range
Omega-6:3 Ratio
8.3:1
ELEVATED
Optimal: 3:1 – 5:1
8.3:1 ELEVATED
AA:EPA Ratio
14.1:1
ELEVATED
Optimal: 2.5:1 – 11:1
14.1:1 ELEVATED
📅 Monitoring & Retesting
Low/Suboptimal: Retest in 3–4 months after starting supplementation.
Optimal: Retest in 6 months to ensure levels remain stable.
Elevated/High: Retest in 3 months after reducing intake.
RBC fatty acid levels reflect average intake over the previous 3–4 months.
📍 Recommended Retest: April – May 2026
Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051
Key Results Overview
Omega-3 Index
SUBOPTIMAL
5.32%
5.32%
Optimal
2.8% 4% 8% 12% 15.4%
Ref: 2.8 – 15.4%. Optimal: 8 – 12%.
Measures EPA and DHA in red blood cells. Optimal level (8–12%) indicates good cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory protection.
Omega-6:Omega-3 Ratio
ELEVATED
8.3:1
8.3:1
Optimal
1:1 3:1 5:1 9:1 11:1
Ref: 1.9:1 – 14.6:1. Optimal: 3:1 – 5:1.
Balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory fatty acids. Lower ratio (3:1–5:1) indicates reduced inflammation.
AA:EPA Ratio
ELEVATED
14.1:1
14.1:1
Optimal
1:1 2.5:1 11:1 20:1 26:1
Ref: 1.1:1 – 69.1:1. Optimal: 2.5:1 – 11:1.
Arachidonic Acid vs EPA balance. Lower ratio indicates better inflammatory balance.
Trans Fat Index
OPTIMAL
0.35%
0.35%
Optimal
0% 1% 2% 2.5%
Ref: 0.22 – 1.99%. Optimal: < 1%.
Reflects exposure to industrial trans fats, associated with cardiovascular risk. Lower is better.
Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051
Complete Fatty Acid Profile
OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS
Fatty AcidResult (%)Reference RangeStatusDistribution
Total Omega-34.882.7 – 12.9NORMAL
Omega-3 Index (EPA+DHA)5.322.8 – 15.4SUBOPTIMAL
Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) C18:3n-30.360.07 – 0.70NORMAL
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) C20:5n-30.650.20 – 3.85NORMAL
Docosapentaenoic Acid (DPA) C22:5n-31.010.63 – 2.60NORMAL
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) C22:6n-32.871.76 – 7.78NORMAL
OMEGA-6 FATTY ACIDS
Fatty AcidResult (%)Reference RangeStatusDistribution
Total Omega-640.5928.4 – 46.2NORMAL
Linoleic Acid (LA) C18:2n-628.0618.3 – 33.6NORMAL
Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) C18:3n-60.190.02 – 0.34NORMAL
Eicosadienoic Acid C20:2n-60.270.12 – 0.42NORMAL
Dihomo-gamma-linolenic (DGLA) C20:3n-61.550.77 – 2.72NORMAL
Arachidonic Acid (AA) C20:4n-69.116.25 – 14.7NORMAL
Docosatetraenoic Acid C22:4n-61.190.40 – 2.48NORMAL
Docosapentaenoic Acid (DPA n-6) C22:5n-60.220.07 – 0.77NORMAL
CIS-MONOUNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS
Fatty AcidResult (%)Reference RangeStatusDistribution
Total Monounsaturated20.2614.8 – 24.2NORMAL
Palmitoleic Acid C16:1n-71.000.30 – 2.22NORMAL
Oleic Acid C18:1n-918.6113.6 – 21.5NORMAL
Eicosenoic Acid C20:1n-90.200.10 – 0.42NORMAL
Nervonic Acid C24:1n-90.440.16 – 0.94NORMAL
Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051
Complete Fatty Acid Profile (continued)
SATURATED FATTY ACIDS
Fatty AcidResult (%)Reference RangeStatusDistribution
Total Saturated33.7728.9 – 38.1NORMAL
Myristic Acid C14:00.770.30 – 1.64NORMAL
Palmitic Acid C16:020.8917.9 – 24.5NORMAL
Stearic Acid C18:011.438.8 – 14.2NORMAL
Arachidic Acid C20:00.130.06 – 0.28NORMAL
Behenic Acid C22:00.240.08 – 0.48NORMAL
Lignoceric Acid C24:00.310.06 – 0.60NORMAL
TRANS FATTY ACIDS
Fatty AcidResult (%)Reference RangeStatusDistribution
Total Trans Fats0.500.15 – 1.58NORMAL
Trans Palmitoleic Acid C16:1t0.150.03 – 0.48NORMAL
Trans Oleic Acid (Elaidic) C18:1t0.220.06 – 0.70NORMAL
Trans Linoleic Acid C18:2t0.130.05 – 0.40NORMAL
Trans Fat Index0.35< 1.00 (Optimal)OPTIMAL
FATTY ACID RATIOS
RatioResultOptimal RangeStatus
AA:EPA Ratio14.1:12.5:1 – 11:1ELEVATED
Omega-6:Omega-3 Ratio8.3:13:1 – 5:1ELEVATED
Fatty Acid Composition Overview
Total 100%
Omega-3   4.88%
Omega-6   40.59%
Monounsaturated   20.26%
Saturated   33.77%
Trans   0.50%
Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051
Your Results Journey
Your current results with projected improvement at 3–4 months
Omega-3 Index
LOW SUB-OPT OPTIMAL 3% 4% 5% 6% 7% 8% 9% 10% 5.32% ~8.0% Current +3–4 months projected
Omega-6:Omega-3 Ratio
HIGH ELEVATED OPTIMAL 1:1 3:1 5:1 7:1 9:1 11:1 8.3:1 ~5:1 Current +3–4 months projected
AA:EPA Ratio
HIGH ELEVATED OPTIMAL 1:1 5:1 11:1 17:1 26:1 14.1:1 ~11:1 Current +3–4 months projected
Note on Projections
Projected values are based on published research (Walker et al., 2019) and typical responses to a combination of omega-3 supplementation and dietary improvements at the recommended levels. Individual results may vary depending on baseline levels, dietary adherence, genetics, absorption, and lifestyle factors. These projections are not guaranteed outcomes. We recommend retesting in 3–4 months to track your actual progress and adjust your plan accordingly.
Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051
What We Test & Why It Matters
● Omega-3 Index

The Omega-3 Index measures the combined percentage of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) in your red blood cell membranes. It is the most well-researched and clinically validated marker of long-term Omega-3 status.

Unlike a simple blood test, this reflects your average Omega-3 intake over the past 120 days (the lifespan of red blood cells). An optimal index of 8–12% is associated with improved brain function and reduced systemic inflammation.

● Omega-6:Omega-3 Ratio

This ratio compares total Omega-6 fatty acids to total Omega-3 fatty acids. While both are essential, the modern Western diet typically provides an excess of Omega-6 (from seed oils and processed foods) relative to Omega-3.

An optimal ratio of 3:1 – 5:1 supports balanced inflammatory responses. Higher ratios are associated with increased chronic inflammation, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and autoimmune conditions.

● AA:EPA Ratio

The AA:EPA ratio measures the balance between Arachidonic Acid (AA, an Omega-6) and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA, an Omega-3). These two fatty acids compete for the same enzymes and directly influence your body’s inflammatory response.

A lower ratio (optimal: 2.5:1 – 11:1) indicates a more anti-inflammatory state. Elevated ratios suggest a pro-inflammatory profile that may be improved through increased EPA intake and reduced consumption of Omega-6-rich foods.

● Trans Fat Index

The Trans Fat Index measures the total percentage of trans fatty acids in your blood. Trans fats are primarily found in partially hydrogenated oils, fried foods, and some processed baked goods.

An optimal level below 1% is desirable. Higher levels are associated with increased LDL cholesterol, decreased HDL cholesterol, and elevated cardiovascular risk. Even small reductions in trans fat intake can have significant health benefits.

Why Optimal Omega-3 Levels Matter
🫀
Heart Health
Reduces risk of cardiovascular events and supports healthy blood pressure
🧠
Brain Function
Supports cognitive performance, memory, and neuroprotection
👁
Eye Health
DHA is essential for retinal health and visual development
😊
Mood & Wellbeing
Linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
🦴
Joints & Mobility
Reduces inflammation and supports joint comfort
Skin Health
Supports skin hydration, elasticity, and UV protection
🤰
Pregnancy
Critical for foetal brain and eye development
💪
Muscle & Sport
Aids recovery, reduces exercise-induced inflammation
Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051
Diet & Lifestyle
Alongside supplementation, dietary and lifestyle choices play an important role in supporting your omega-3 levels and overall health. The guidance below is tailored to different dietary preferences.
🐟
If You Eat Fish & Seafood
RICHEST EPA+DHA SOURCES
  • Aim for oily fish 2–3 times per week (salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, anchovies) — these are the richest natural sources of preformed EPA and DHA.
  • Shellfish such as mussels, oysters, and shrimp also provide meaningful amounts of omega-3.
EPA & DHA Content Guide
Fish & Seafood (per 100g serving, cooked)
SpeciesEPA (mg)DHA (mg)Total EPA+DHA (mg)Content
Atlantic Mackerel5046991,203High
Atlantic Salmon (farmed)6901,4572,147High
Atlantic Salmon (wild)4111,4291,840High
Sardines (canned)473509982High
Herring9091,1052,014High
Anchovies7631,2922,055High
Rainbow Trout3348201,154High
Tuna (canned, light)44223267Moderate
Cod4120124Low
Shrimp50144194Moderate
Mussels276506782High
Oysters274210484Moderate
* Values approximate, vary by species/preparation. Source: USDA FoodData Central.   High (>500 mg)   Moderate (200–500 mg)   Low (<200 mg)
🌱
If You Don’t Eat Fish or Are Vegan
PLANT-BASED OPTIONS
  • Include ALA-rich foods daily: flaxseeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and walnuts. Note that ALA conversion to EPA/DHA is limited (typically <5%), so supplementation remains important.
  • Algae-based omega-3 supplements are an effective vegan source of preformed DHA and EPA, derived directly from marine microalgae rather than fish.
Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051
Lifestyle & Supplementation
🏃
Lifestyle
SUPPORTING FACTORS
  • Exercise regularly – moderate physical activity supports Omega-3 incorporation into cell membranes and may enhance the anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Manage stress – chronic stress increases inflammatory markers and can counteract the benefits of optimal Omega-3 levels.
  • Body composition – higher body fat percentage is associated with lower Omega-3 levels, as fatty acids distribute across more adipose tissue. Maintaining a healthy weight can support better Omega-3 status.
💊
Supplementation
OMEGA-3 SUPPLEMENTS
Supplement TypeTypical EPA (mg)Typical DHA (mg)Total EPA+DHA (mg)Notes
Standard Fish Oil180120300Most common, lower concentration
Concentrated Fish Oil400200600Higher EPA:DHA ratio
Triglyceride Form Fish Oil350250600Better absorption than ethyl ester
Krill Oil12070190Phospholipid form, includes astaxanthin
Algae Oil (vegan)150300450Plant-based, higher DHA
Cod Liver Oil90120210Includes Vit A & D
💡 Absorption tip: Take omega-3 supplements with or immediately after a meal containing fat. Studies show that consuming omega-3 with a fatty meal can increase absorption by up to 3× compared to taking them on an empty stomach, as dietary fat stimulates bile and lipase production needed to emulsify and absorb the fatty acids.
Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051

Your Personalised EPA+DHA Plan

Use the reference table and interactive calculator to estimate your dietary intake and supplement needs

Your Total Daily Requirement
980 mg/day EPA+DHA
Based on Walker et al. 2019
Target: 8.0% Omega-3 Index
EPA+DHA Content Per Serving
Fish / Seafood ~100g ~150g ~200g
Salmon (farmed) 2,330 3,480 4,630
Salmon (wild) 1,730 2,580 3,430
Mackerel 1,790 2,670 3,550
Sardines (canned) 1,410 2,100 2,790
Herring 1,570 2,340 3,110
Anchovies 1,370 2,040 2,710
Trout (farmed) 1,150 1,710 2,270
Tuna (Bluefin) 1,150 1,710 2,270
Barramundi 400 600 800
Prawns / Shrimp 320 480 640
Snapper 320 480 640
Tuna (canned) 220 330 440
Cod / White fish 140 210 280
Values in mg EPA+DHA per serving. Source: USDA/FSANZ.
Quick Supplement Guide
Your Fish Intake Diet Suppl. Caps
No fish 0 980 3–4
Salmon 1×/wk ~497 ~483 2
Salmon 2×/wk ~994 0 0
Sardines 2×/wk ~600 ~380 1–2
Canned tuna 2×/wk ~94 ~886 3
~300 mg EPA+DHA per standard capsule. Serving sizes ~150g.
Projected values based on Walker et al. (2019). Individual results may vary depending on baseline levels, adherence, genetics, absorption, and lifestyle. Not guaranteed outcomes — retest in 3–4 months. EPA+DHA values approximate (USDA/FSANZ). For educational guidance only.
Interactive Calculator
Weekly from Fish: 0 mg
Daily from Diet: 0 mg/day
Requirement: 980 mg/day
Supplement Need: 980 mg/day
3-4 capsules/day (~300 mg EPA+DHA each)
Fatty Acid Labs ™
A BRAND OF MASDIAG
Omega-3 Complete Report
Referral: ABC Clinic
Name: Sarah Mitchell
DOB: 01/01/2000
Collection Date: 01/01/2026
Received Date: 05/01/2026
Report Date: 08/01/2026
Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot
Analysis: GC-FID
Measurement Unit: Percentage %
Barcode
TEST0051
Important Information
🔬
About Fatty Acid Testing
METHODOLOGY
  • This test analyses a dried blood spot (DBS) sample — whole blood containing RBCs, white blood cells, and plasma — using gas chromatography with flame ionisation detection (GC-FID), quantifying 24 fatty acids expressed as a percentage of total identified fatty acids.
  • The Omega-3 Index (Harris & von Schacky, 2004) measures EPA + DHA as a percentage of total RBC fatty acids. DBS shows strong correlation (R² > 0.96) with the RBC-based Omega-3 Index, making it a validated method for assessing long-term omega-3 status over 3–4 months.
  • An Omega-3 Index of 8–12% is considered optimal. This correlation may not extend equally to all individual fatty acids — the complete profile is provided for educational and informational purposes.
📚
References
EVIDENCE BASE
  • Harris, W.S. & von Schacky, C. (2004). The Omega-3 Index: a new risk factor for death from coronary heart disease? Preventive Medicine, 39(1), 212–220.
  • Walker, R.E., Jackson, K.H., Tintle, N.L., et al. (2019). Predicting the effects of supplemental EPA and DHA on the omega-3 index. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 110(4), 1034–1040.
  • Simopoulos, A.P. (2002). The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 56(8), 365–379.
  • Calder, P.C. (2015). Marine omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: effects, mechanisms and clinical relevance. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, 1851(4), 469–484.
  • Stark, K.D., et al. (2016). Global survey of the omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA in the blood stream of healthy adults. Progress in Lipid Research, 63, 132–152.
⚠️
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT
This report is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, dietary, or nutritional advice. The dietary and supplementation recommendations provided are based on published research including Walker et al. (2019) and are intended as general guidance only — they are not a substitute for personalised advice from a qualified healthcare professional, registered dietitian, or nutritionist. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplementation, or lifestyle, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or managing a medical condition. Masdiag does not accept liability for actions taken based on this report.
Questions About Your Results?
CONTACT US
If you have any questions about your results, would like help interpreting your report, or need guidance on next steps, our team is here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re happy to assist you on your health journey.
support@masdiag.com
We aim to respond within 1–2 business days.