04.05.10
SpectraCell Laboratories, Houston, TX, has launched the HS-Omega-3 Index, which measures the amount of EPA and DHA essential fatty acids in a person’s red blood cells. Red blood cell fatty acid composition reflects long-term intake of EPA and DHA, and is highly correlated with the amount of fatty acids found in heart tissue. When the Omega 3 Index is high (above 8%), there is a 90% reduction in risk of sudden death, whereas an index less than 4% has highest level of risk. The Omega 3 Index will also tell a person the ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 fatty acids in their body. Omega 6 fatty acids contribute to inflammation while omega 3 fatty acids reduce whole body inflammation.