When assessing fatty acids in RBCs, Genova measures a weighted percentage of fatty acids taken up into the erythrocyte wall. The total omega-6 percentage is a combined total weight percentage calculated by adding together each of the measured omega-6s.
Because some omega-6 fatty acids are less beneficial than others, each fatty acid abnormality should be addressed.
However, in general, assessing the total omega-6 percentage as it relates to the omega-3 percentage is helpful. A more balanced ratio may decrease risk of many chronic diseases. It should be noted that when dealing with percentages, the amount of each fatty acid can influence the others. For example, fish oil supplementation may increase the overall omega-3 percentage, which may ultimately lower the omega-6 percentage.
References:
- Simopoulos AP. The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids. Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie. 2002;56(8):365-379.
% Omega-6s
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