Your guide to Arachidonic Acid.

Discover the role of arachidonic acid in your health and longevity with Mito Health's advanced biomarker analysis. Our detailed reports cover key biomarkers, providing essential insights to help you make informed decisions for a healthier, longer life.

What is Arachidonic Acid?

Arachidonic acid is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid that is found in the phospholipids of cell membranes, particularly in tissues like the brain, liver, and muscles. It is a precursor to various bioactive molecules, including eicosanoids, which play a key role in inflammation, immune response, and cell signaling.

Arachidonic acid is primarily obtained through the diet, especially from animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy, although it can also be synthesized in the body from linoleic acid, another omega-6 fatty acid.

What does it assess?

Arachidonic acid levels can provide insights into an individual’s inflammatory status and overall omega-6 fatty acid balance.

Elevated levels of arachidonic acid are associated with increased eicosanoid production, which can lead to heightened inflammation.

By assessing arachidonic acid levels, healthcare providers can gauge the degree of inflammation and help determine whether an individual’s omega-6 intake is contributing to health issues.

How do I optimize my Arachidonic Acid levels?

Tip 1

While arachidonic acid is necessary for the body, excessive omega-6 fatty acid intake, especially from processed foods and vegetable oils, can lead to an overproduction of inflammatory eicosanoids.

Reducing processed food and oil consumption can help optimize the balance of arachidonic acid.

Tip 2

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, counteract the pro-inflammatory effects of omega-6 fatty acids.

Foods rich in omega-3s can help shift the balance of arachidonic acid toward a more favorable inflammatory response.

Tip 3

Saturated fats, especially those found in processed and red meats, can promote inflammation.

Reducing saturated fat intake may help optimize arachidonic acid levels and mitigate inflammation.

What do high and low Arachidonic Acid levels mean?

Elevated arachidonic acid levels are typically linked to an inflammatory state.

When arachidonic acid is abundant, it is converted into pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, which can exacerbate conditions like cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and chronic inflammatory diseases. High levels of arachidonic acid often indicate an imbalance in omega-6 and omega-3 intake, favoring inflammation.

Low arachidonic acid levels can result in insufficient eicosanoid production, which may impair proper immune response and tissue repair.

While low levels are less common, they may indicate a deficiency in essential fatty acids or a highly controlled anti-inflammatory diet.

Share this

Get started easily

Schedule tests
Book your tests conveniently through Mito Health.
Receive results and action plan
Receive detailed insights and personalized recommendations based on your test results, family history, and lifestyle.
Take action and test again
Implement the recommended actions and retest to track your progress over time.

FAQs

Ask us anything about how Mito Health can help you live better, stronger and happier!

Is your health screening claimable by insurance or company benefits?

  • Yes, our health screening is recognised by insurance & corporate companies as a health screening panel. You will be issued an official invoice which can be used to file a claim.

What do I need to take note of before my blood test?

  • You’ll be required to fast 8 hours before the blood draw. Plain water is allowed.
  • No strenuous exercise 12 hours prior to the test.

Do I have to fast before the blood test?

  • Yes, you’ll be required to fast 8 hours before your blood draw. Plain water is allowed.

Do I have to give my urine & stool samples?

  • Yes, you will be required to provide urine & stool samples. Samples can be collected the same day as your blood draw, as the containers will be sent to you in advance. If you’re not able to produce the samples on the same day, they can be picked up on a separate arranged day.

How long does the health screening take?

  • Just 15-20 minutes! We’ll collect your blood sample & key biometrics. Stool & urine samples can be collected on the same day or in a separate arrangement.

How often should I do a health screening?

  • Doctors recommend at least twice a year, so you can also measure before & after any health interventions. 
  • Our health screening is also complementary to traditional GP & Hospital health screenings if you have already done your health screening for the year. Our test report offers more in-depth insights & tailored health recommendations. You can view examples of the insights on our demo dashboard here. 
  • Our panel of biomarkers not only extends your lifespan with early illness detection, but they also provide helpful insights to how you can feel & move better. Learn more about our biomarkers here. 

Why is health screening important?

  • Long-term health: Regular screenings can help you stay healthy throughout your life. By identifying and addressing potential problems early on, you can reduce your risk of developing more serious health problems down the road.
  • Early treatment is better: Many health conditions are easier and more affordable to treat when caught early. Screenings can help identify these issues before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment.
  • Peace of mind: Knowing your health status through screenings can be a big stress reliever. It allows you to focus on staying healthy and enjoying life.
  • Think of it as an investment in your future health and well-being. It's a chance to take control and stay proactive about your health.

I have more questions, how do I contact you? 

You can email us at help@mitohealth.com & we'll revert as soon as possible!