Many of us know the value of having a good Omega-3 Index. It’s similar to having a healthy cholesterol and blood sugar level. It’s good for our health. A higher Omega-3 Index has significant benefits for our heart health, our blood pressure levels, our circulation, our minds, and our mental health, too. It’s achievable by eating fish, taking fish oil, or consuming a vegan omega-3 product made with SDA and DHA. Since we can’t produce omega-3 in our bodies, we need to get it from our diet or supplements.
We wondered how many natural product industry professionals had a Desirable Omega-3 Index, an Omega-3 Index of 8% or higher? To answer this question, we offered the test free ($50 value) to visitors of the Wiley’s Finest booth at industry events.
We tested 612 men and women; most of them had an Omega-3 Index that was above average but lower than optimal. This is not surprising. Even people who know the science can fall short of a healthy Omega-3 Index. Why? Because we need to eat fatty fish or take a good omega-3 supplement on a regular basis to keep our omega-3 levels in the Desirable, or optimal range. Most of us will live in the average range unless we commit to increasing our Omega-3 Index.
The good news is that it’s easy to improve your Omega-3 Index! For example, research shows us that to improve your index by 4% – to move from Moderate to Desirable range – you need about 2,000 mg EPA and DHA per day for at least 3 months. Then you can maintain this new level of health by eating more fish or continuing to take omega-3s. Simple. Easy. Totally Doable.
| Omega-3 Index | <4% | 4-8% | >8% |
| Health Benefit | Negligible | Moderate | Desirable |
There is more good news! About 15% of those we tested had a Desirable Omega-3 Index. These industry professionals have achieved optimal omega-3 health status and you can too!
This difference between Moderate and Desirable Omega-3 Index levels reflects the difference between average and optimal health. Where do you want to live?
Gretchen Vannice is the Director of Nutrition Education and Research for Wiley Companies. She is a nationally recognized expert, author, and speaker in omega-3 research and education.
Disclaimer: This information is offered for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice of any kind. The educational information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, mitigate, or cure any disease nor has this been reviewed or approved by the FDA.
Scientific references available upon request.
