FAQs

The Omegametrix Method is the world’s first and leading strictly standardized method for the analysis of fatty acids. By covering 26 fatty acids, the method captures over 99% of the essential fatty acids in red blood cells. Because the fatty acid composition of erythrocytes varies little from day to day, our method exhibits particularly low biological variability. In addition, through rigorous quality control and the precise standardization of all influencing factors we ensure very low analytical variability. Together, this results in an excellent signal-to-noise ratio – crucial for any robust and reliable measurement.

A standardized method of fatty acid analysis is important in order to ensure the comparability of data and to obtain reliable, reproducible results. Without a standardized methodology, measurement values can vary, making it difficult to interpret these results and derive clinical findings. A standardized method enables precise determination of the fatty acid composition and a better understanding of its relevance to health.

The fatty acids present in plasma are unsuitable as long-term indicators because their concentrations are strongly influenced by short-term factors such as meals, stress, and hormonal fluctuations, leading to high variability. In contrast, fatty acids in the erythrocyte membrane provide a long-term indication of fatty acid levels due to the long lifespan of these cells (approximately 120 days). All levels therefore reflect the balance between intake, pool size, and turnover. The intake of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) comes not only from the diet but also in small amounts from ALA (alpha linolenic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Furthermore, the bioavailability of EPA and DHA is complex. The pool size (i.e., the total amount of fatty acids in the body) varies from person to person – just like weight. And the removal of the fatty acids, i.e., the further metabolization of EPA and DHA, also varies from person to person. The stability of these levels, as we detect them in the cell membrane of red blood cells, makes them reliable markers for assessing a person’s fatty acid status.

To determine absolute values, a standard with a known value must be used as a reference. However, these standards are often not very reliable, as they can introduce fluctuations in the analysis that affect the accuracy of the results. In contrast, relative values offer the advantage of being independent of starting amounts, because they represent the ratio between the measured quantities. This means that any fluctuations in the standard or in the starting amount are balanced out, as it is only the ratio that matters. This makes relative values more stable and leads to more consistent results. What’s more, over 420 publications are based on our method – hence, on our percentage-based measurements.

The two HS Indices, HS‑Omega‑3 Index® and HS‑Trans Index®, are measured in the cell membrane of red blood cells. They are representative of the fatty acid composition of all cell membranes in the body. Each type of cell has a different target range in its membrane. For example, the target range for EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in certain parts of the brain is about 60%, while in other cells (such as white blood cells) it is significantly lower. If the HS‑Omega‑3 Index® (as measured in the membrane of red blood cells) is within the optimal range of 8–11%, it indicates that all other cell membranes are well supplied with EPA and DHA. The same applies to the HS‑Trans Index®. The fatty acid composition of a cell is established when the cell is renewed during cell turnover. This can take days, as with white blood cells, or up to two years, as with brain cells. The lifespans of other cells fall in between. Accordingly, it takes varying lengths of time for the respective cells to reach their new equilibrium after, for example, beginning supplementation with EPA and DHA. The lifespan of red blood cells represents a good median value from which conclusions can be drawn for all other cells.

Yes, there are other fatty acids that occur in very small amounts. For example, very short-chained fatty acids, fatty acids with an odd number of carbon atoms, very long-chained fatty acids, and even branched-chain fatty acids.

The HS Omega 3 Index® indicates the levels of the two marine Omega 3 fatty acids, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), in the body. Our Omegametrix Method provides HS-Omega-3 Index® values by measuring the 26 most important fatty acids in the red blood cell membrane and expressing the proportion of EPA and DHA as a percentage.

The target range for the HS Omega 3 Index® is between 8% and 11%. In this range, the values are optimal for promoting health and a greater and longer quality of life.

Most people have a deficiency in EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). This deficiency can be detected with the HS Omega 3 Index®. Our analysis method is strictly standardized and is supported by over 420 scientific publications. An HS Omega 3 Index® within the target range of 8–11% offers many health benefits in various areas relevant to quality of life. Most people need to supplement EPA and DHA to bring their HS Omega 3 Index® into the optimal range. The required dose, however, varies from person to person, as factors such as dietary habits, genetics, lifestyle, age, gender, existing health conditions, and physical activity can influence uptake. Measuring the HS Omega 3 Index® helps tailor individual supplementation needs and avoid overdosing.

An HS Omega 3 Index® in the target range (8–11%) offers many health benefits. It is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases – Omega 3 fatty acids have anti inflammatory properties and support heart health. Additionally, an optimal HS Omega 3 Index® can enhance brain function and stabilize mood. It is also linked to improved immune function, which boosts overall health and well being. Furthermore, Omega 3 fatty acids support joint health by reducing inflammation in the joints and alleviating arthritis symptoms. They also promote skin health by improving skin elasticity and can help alleviate skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Moreover, they contribute to eye health by supporting retinal function and reducing the risk of age related eye diseases. An adequate Omega 3 level can also help lower blood pressure, reduce depressive symptoms, and strengthen cognitive function.

A low HS Omega 3 Index® – that is, below the target range of 8–11% – can have various negative impacts on health and has been linked to shorter life expectancy. A low HS Omega 3 Index® is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and strokes, and may also increase the risk of atrial fibrillation. Additionally, a low Omega 3 level can promote inflammatory processes in the body, increasing the risk for chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Low Omega 3 values also impair brain function and are associated with a higher risk of cognitive impairments and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, insufficient Omega 3 levels can negatively affect mental health by increasing the risk of depression and other psychological disorders. The immune system may also be weakened, raising susceptibility to infections. Other potential consequences include joint problems, skin issues such as dry skin and eczema, allergies, as well as an increased risk of pregnancy complications (including premature births). Regular monitoring and optimization of the HS Omega 3 Index® is therefore important to minimize these risks and promote overall health and well being.

Whether or not an individual’s intake of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) has been excessive can only be determined by measuring their HS Omega 3 Index®; if the index exceeds the target range of 8–11%, it indicates an over intake. An excessive intake of EPA and DHA, the two most important Omega 3 fatty acids, can potentially be harmful. A too high HS Omega 3 Index® may lead to increased bleeding tendency and is associated with an elevated risk of atrial fibrillation, a serious heart rhythm disorder. At the same time, a too low HS Omega 3 Index® can also increase the risk of atrial fibrillation. Therefore, it is important to carefully monitor the intake of EPA and DHA via the HS Omega 3 Index® and consult a medical provider if in doubt.

An HS-Omega-3 Index® above 11% can be useful for people with chronic inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease. A higher Omega 3 level can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. Patients can often experience relief, however, just by reaching the target range. If symptoms remain intolerable even when the HS Omega 3 Index® is in the upper target range, the index may be further increased. In this case, it is recommended to wear a device (such as a smartwatch) that is capable of detecting atrial fibrillation. Should atrial fibrillation be indicated, it must be medically treated. Under no circumstances should the HS Omega 3 Index® exceed 15% – this is to prevent the potential side effects of excessive intake, such as increased bleeding tendency. In order to ensure appropriate and safe supplementation, individuals should only consider aiming for high index values after consulting with an experienced physician.

Some individuals achieve the target range without additional supplements, while others experience difficulties even with supplementation. The reasons for these differences can include dietary habits, genetic factors, lifestyle, age, gender, existing health conditions, and physical activity. This shows how important it is to supplement EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in a safe and controlled manner using the HS-Omega-3 Index®, rather than arbitrarily.

The terrestrial Omega‑3 fatty acid ALA (alpha‑linolenic acid) is not part of the HS‑Omega‑3 Index®; the index is based on the two marine Omega‑3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). The process of converting ALA to EPA in the human body is very inefficient, and its capability of converting EPA to DHA is equally limited. This is why ALA intake does not contribute to an increase in the HS‑Omega‑3 Index®. Therefore, it is important to supplement marine Omega‑3 fatty acids in order to benefit from the vital functions of EPA and DHA.

Yes, the bioavailability of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) can be increased if these Omega 3 fatty acids are consumed together with the richest (fatty) meal of the day.

The HS Trans Index® indicates the level of harmful trans fatty acids (trans oleic acid and trans linoleic acids) in the body. The Omegametrix Method measures the 26 most important fatty acids in the red blood cell membrane and expresses the proportion of harmful trans fatty acids as a percentage.

The target range for the HS Trans Index® is below 1.04%. Within this range, the values are considered optimal for promoting health and a greater and longer quality of life.

Measuring the HS Trans Index® is important because it shows the proportion of harmful trans fatty acids in the blood, which are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and inflammation. An analysis of the index enables targeted dietary recommendations to reduce these unhealthy fatty acids and improve overall health.

An HS Trans Index® within the target range (below 1.04%) offers numerous health benefits. It reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases because a low level of harmful trans fatty acids supports heart health and lowers the risk of heart disease and strokes. Additionally, a low index contributes to reducing inflammatory processes in the body, counteracting chronic disease.

An HS Trans Index® above 1.04% can have significant health consequences. It is associated with a reduced life expectancy and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, as harmful trans fatty acids impair the health of the cardiovascular system. Additionally, trans fatty acids can exacerbate inflammatory processes in the body, leading to chronic disease. Over time, a high proportion of trans fatty acids may also promote other conditions such as obesity and metabolic syndrome.

To have your fatty acid analysis performed by Omegametrix, you must first decide whether you want to use EDTA blood (approximately 2 mL, taken from a vein) or dried blood from a finger prick (which can be done from home). For a EDTA blood sample, please schedule an appointment with a qualified medical professional, who will take your blood sample and have it shipped to our laboratory. For the dried blood sample, you can use our blood collection kit to collect the sample yourself, and send it according to the enclosed instructions to the Omegametrix laboratory. In both cases, you will receive a detailed report with your results, including the HS Indices, once the analysis has been completed.

Either dried blood or EDTA blood can be used for fatty acid analysis using to the Omegametrix Method. Dried blood from a finger prick can be collected using our specially designed blood collection kit. It is important to read the enclosed instructions carefully and to fill the circles on the dried blood card as completely as possible. In contrast, EDTA blood (approximately 2 mL), should be collected by qualified medical professional.

Yes, as a private individual you can get tested without a doctor. Simply order an Omegametrix blood collection kit to collect a dried blood sample yourself from a finger prick, send the sample to our laboratory for analysis, and receive a detailed report of your results. This way, you can conveniently and directly determine your fatty acid values.

Fasting is not required for the fatty acid analysis using EDTA blood. However, when using dried blood, the patient should fast for at least 10 hours (ideally overnight) prior to sample collection to ensure the accuracy of the results. If you have any questions, Omegametrix’s customer services are available to assist you.

No, it is not necessary to stop taking EPA and DHA supplements before testing the HS Omega 3 Index®. This is because the measurement of fatty acids is performed in the erythrocyte membrane, where the long term fatty acid composition is stored. Therefore, the test reflects the Omega 3 status independently of short term changes due to supplementation. It is, therefore, a long term parameter.

The method for analyzing EDTA blood and dried blood is identical; however, the initial sample preparation differs. In EDTA blood samples, we can separate the red blood cells from the plasma and buffy coat, which is not possible with dried blood samples. Dried blood therefore consists of whole blood. The fatty acid composition in whole blood is slightly different from that in red blood cells because the biological variability in plasma is higher. Consequently, when calculating the HS Omega 3 Index® from dried blood, we obtain slightly different results. To provide the final HS Omega 3 Index® in the reports from dried blood samples, we are able to use a correction factor to convert the result into one analogous to that of red blood cells. Therefore, due to its higher biological variability, the result from dried blood is not quite as precise as that from EDTA blood, but still provides a very meaningful result.

Yes, both the dried blood sample and the EDTA blood sample can be sent to our laboratory at the end of the week.

The cost for the analysis of EDTA blood is €67.54, which includes postage. For the analysis of dried blood, the cost is €74.74, including postage and the single-use set of materials. Billing is carried out according to the German scale of medical fees (GOÄ) twice under code 3726.

Invoices are sent in the middle of the month following the analysis. For example, if the analysis was performed on March 21, 2024, the invoice will be sent around April 15, 2024.

The results of a fatty acid analysis are usually made available 48 hours after the sample is received in our laboratory. The results are provided in a report, which you can access using the e mail address you provided via our Laboratory Portal.

As a medical professional (e.g., doctor or therapist), we welcome you to register with us as a sample sender. Simply send us an e mail at ticket@omegametrix.eu.

No, registering as a sender with Omegametrix does not entail any obligations. Registering allows us to store your data in our system so that we can assign your samples correctly. It also allows us to take into account your preferred options for receiving reports and invoices.

No, there is no minimum order quantity for blood collection kits or shipping materials.

The Omegametrix Laboratory Portal is an online platform through which you can register your blood collection kit (test kit) and/or access your report.

When registering a blood test kit, the patient data must be provided. This includes: first name, last name, gender, date of birth, and e mail address. In addition, the serial number of the dried blood card (located on the dried blood card) and the date on which the blood sample was collected (collection date) must be provided.

When you register your test kit through our Laboratory Portal, you digitally transmit your patient data to us. You will then receive a four digit code, which you should enter in the “Name” field on your dried blood card. This code enables our laboratory to quickly assign, retrieve, and store your data in our system. The e mail address you provide us with on registering will later be required to retrieve your report in the Laboratory Portal.

To retrieve your report in the Laboratory Portal, enter your e mail address under “View Report.” You will then receive an e mail with a login link. Click on this link to gain access to the Laboratory Portal and your report.

We send the login link for our Laboratory Portal to the e mail address you provided when registering the test or on the contact card. If you do not receive an e mail (please also check your spam folder), contact us at ticket@omegametrix.eu and we will assist you as quickly as possible.

To perform a fatty acid analysis on your animal, we require a blood sample (EDTA blood or dried blood), just as we do for humans. The blood collection must be carried out by a qualified veterinary professional. You can contact a local professional or one of our already registered sample senders for assistance.

As with humans, the following applies to animals: for the submission of an EDTA blood sample, the animal does not need to fast prior to sample collection. When sending in dried blood, the animal should have fasted (i.e., the animal must not be fed) for about 10 hours before the blood sample is taken.