Ordering the Essential Fatty Acids Test
The Essential Fatty Acids Test helps you check the balance of omega 3, omega 6, and other important fats in your blood. These fats play a role in brain function, skin condition, joint comfort, and heart support. Interestingly, research shows that an imbalance in these fats can affect how well your body handles inflammation, which may impact how you feel day to day.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Identify if you have low or high levels of specific fatty acids like EPA, DHA, and arachidonic acid
- Spot patterns linked to skin issues such as eczema or psoriasis
- Find out if your fatty acid levels may be linked to mood changes or trouble with memory
- Check for imbalances that could affect your energy or cause fatigue
- Get clear information to guide changes in your diet or supplements
Who Should Consider Fatty Acid Profile Testing
People who notice dry, itchy skin, frequent joint aches, or trouble focusing at work or school may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has tried different diets but still feels tired or has trouble remembering things might find answers by checking their fatty acid levels.
Ordering this test may also be helpful if you:
- Have a family history of heart disease or early heart problems
- Experience mood swings, sadness, or anxiety that do not improve with usual care
- Deal with ongoing joint pain or stiffness not explained by injury
- Notice skin problems like eczema, rashes, or slow-healing wounds
- Are an athlete or active person who wants to track recovery and muscle soreness, since fatty acids can affect inflammation and repair
Checking your fatty acid levels can show if your body is getting the right balance of fats needed for memory, mood, and joint comfort. Delaying this test could mean missing a chance to make simple changes that may help you feel better sooner.
Preparing for Your Fatty Acid Blood Test
Fasting is usually not required for the Essential Fatty Acids Test, but always check your test kit instructions for any special steps. Make sure to follow whatever guidance your doctor or healthcare practitioner gives you, as this helps ensure your sample is collected the right way.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Essential Fatty Acids Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Biomarker Means | Low and High Levels of Essential Fatty Acids Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Omega 3 Fatty Acids | |||
| Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) | 0.5–2.0 | EPA is a type of omega 3 fat that helps manage inflammation and supports heart and brain function. It is found in fish and some algae. |
High levels mean you may be taking too much fish oil or supplements.
Low levels mean your diet may lack omega 3s, which can affect mood and joint comfort. |
| Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) | 2.0–5.0 | DHA is an omega 3 fat important for brain, eye, and nerve function. It is especially needed for memory and focus. |
High levels mean you may be over-supplementing or eating a lot of fatty fish.
Low levels mean you may have trouble with memory, focus, or vision. |
| Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA) | 0.2–1.0 | ALA is a plant-based omega 3 fat found in flaxseed, chia, and walnuts. The body can convert some ALA to EPA and DHA. |
High levels mean you may be eating a lot of plant oils or seeds.
Low levels mean your diet may lack plant-based omega 3s. |
| Docosapentaenoic Acid (DPA) | 0.2–0.8 | DPA is a less common omega 3 that helps with inflammation and may support heart and brain function. |
High levels mean you may be getting extra omega 3s from supplements.
Low levels mean your body may not be making enough from other omega 3s. |
| Omega 6 Fatty Acids | |||
| Linoleic Acid | 15–30 | Linoleic acid is the main omega 6 fat in the diet, found in vegetable oils and nuts. It helps with skin and cell health. |
High levels mean you may be eating a lot of processed foods or oils.
Low levels mean your skin may be dry or you may have trouble healing wounds. |
| Arachidonic Acid | 3.0–8.0 | Arachidonic acid is an omega 6 fat that helps the body respond to injury and infection. It is also linked to inflammation. |
High levels mean you may have more inflammation or eat a lot of animal fats.
Low levels mean your body may not respond as well to injury or stress. |
| Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) | 0.1–0.5 | GLA is an omega 6 fat found in evening primrose and borage oil. It helps with skin comfort and may ease joint aches. |
High levels mean you may be using supplements or special oils.
Low levels mean you may have more skin or joint problems. |
| Dihomo-gamma-linolenic Acid (DGLA) | 0.2–0.6 | DGLA is made from GLA and helps balance inflammation. It is important for skin and immune support. |
High levels mean your body may be making more anti-inflammatory fats.
Low levels mean you may have more trouble with inflammation. |
| Omega 7 and Omega 9 Fatty Acids | |||
| Palmitoleic Acid (Omega 7) | 0.2–0.6 | Palmitoleic acid is a rare fat that may help with skin and heart support. It is found in macadamia nuts and sea buckthorn oil. |
High levels mean you may be eating more omega 7-rich foods.
Low levels mean your skin may be dry or less elastic. |
| Oleic Acid (Omega 9) | 10–25 | Oleic acid is the main fat in olive oil. It helps support heart and blood vessel function. |
High levels mean you may be eating a lot of olive oil or nuts.
Low levels mean your diet may lack healthy fats. |
| Trans Fats and Saturated Fats | |||
| Trans Fats (Elaidic Acid) | 0.0–0.1 | Trans fats are found in processed foods and can raise the risk of heart problems. They are not needed by the body. |
High levels mean you may be eating more processed or fried foods.
Low levels mean you are avoiding trans fats, which is good for your heart. |
| Saturated Fats (Palmitic, Stearic, etc.) | 20–35 | Saturated fats are found in animal products and some oils. They can affect cholesterol and heart function. |
High levels mean you may be eating more animal fats or processed foods.
Low levels mean your diet may be lower in animal fats. |
| Other Fatty Acids and Ratios | |||
| Arachidic Acid | 0.2–0.5 | Arachidic acid is a saturated fat found in peanuts and some oils. It is used as a marker for fat intake. |
High levels mean you may be eating more peanut or canola oil.
Low levels mean your intake of these oils is low. |
| Behenic Acid | 0.1–0.3 | Behenic acid is a long-chain saturated fat found in peanuts and some plant oils. It is used to track fat metabolism. |
High levels mean you may be eating more plant oils.
Low levels mean your intake of these fats is low. |
| Margaric Acid | 0.1–0.3 | Margaric acid is a saturated fat found in dairy and some plant oils. It is a marker for certain dietary fats. |
High levels mean you may be eating more dairy or certain oils.
Low levels mean your intake of these foods is low. |
| Stearic Acid | 5–15 | Stearic acid is a saturated fat found in meat and cocoa butter. It is less likely to raise cholesterol than other saturated fats. |
High levels mean you may be eating more red meat or chocolate.
Low levels mean your intake of these foods is low. |
| Fatty Acid Ratios (Omega 6:3) | 2:1–5:1 | This ratio shows the balance between omega 6 and omega 3 fats. A lower ratio is linked to less inflammation and better heart support. |
High levels mean you may have more omega 6 than omega 3, which can increase inflammation.
Low levels mean you have a better balance of these fats. |
| Lignoceric Acid | 0.1–0.3 | Lignoceric acid is a very long-chain fat found in some plant oils and animal fats. It is used to track fat metabolism. |
High levels mean you may be eating more plant or animal fats.
Low levels mean your intake of these fats is low. |
| Nervonic Acid | 0.2–0.6 | Nervonic acid is important for brain and nerve cell function. It is found in some fish and plant oils. |
High levels mean you may be eating more fish or special plant oils.
Low levels mean your nerve support may be lower. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods and guidelines.
Essential Fatty Acids Test FAQ
Is there Essential Fatty Acids testing near me?
This test is available as a kit that you can use at a local draw site, which you can find using the draw location link at the top of the page. If you have skin issues, joint pain, or mood changes, having a nearby collection site makes it easier to get tested quickly and start finding answers.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand your fatty acid levels and what they mean for you.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for the Essential Fatty Acids Test includes standard shipping to you and back to the lab, but local draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you address symptoms like fatigue or skin problems sooner, so you can make changes that may help you feel better faster.
How often should I retest?
It is best to retest every 4 to 6 months, especially if you are making changes to your diet or supplements. Regular testing helps you track your progress and see if your fatty acid levels are moving in the right direction.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses gas chromatography with flame ionization detection, which is highly specific and sensitive for measuring fatty acids, with a specificity of 98% and sensitivity of 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
None.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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