Metabolic health
Total omega-6 fatty acids (%)
Total n-6
Included in Complete.
Compare membershipsAll your omega-6 fats, added together.
Total omega-6 adds up your omega-6 fats, mostly linoleic acid and arachidonic acid, as a percentage of all fatty acids measured. Omega-6s are a family of polyunsaturated fats, and this value is calculated from your individual results.
Omega-6 fats are often misunderstood.
Omega-6 fats are sometimes described as harmful because arachidonic acid can be turned into inflammatory signalling molecules. A 2009 American Heart Association science advisory reviewed the evidence and supported eating omega-6 fats, mainly linoleic acid, as part of a heart-healthy diet. It didn't support cutting back on them.
Linoleic acid, the main contributor, comes mostly from vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds.
Questions
What does a higher total omega-6 result mean?
It usually reflects more linoleic acid from foods like vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. A higher result isn't considered a warning sign on its own, and it's read alongside your omega-3 results, other blood markers, and health history.
Should I eat fewer omega-6 fats to improve my balance?
The American Heart Association advisory didn't recommend lowering omega-6 intake for heart health, and most research attention is on getting enough omega-3 fats. In 1:1 longevity coaching, you can work out which changes, if any, fit your eating habits.