Arachidonic Acid/EPA Ratio: Key to Inflammation & Omega-3 Balance
Discover the role of the Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio 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 the Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio?
The Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio is a measure of the balance between two important omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in the body.
Arachidonic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid that is involved in inflammatory processes, while eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega-3 fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory effects.
The Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio reflects the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory processes in the body. A lower ratio is generally considered more favorable for reducing inflammation and promoting cardiovascular health.
What does it assess?
The Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio assesses an individual’s inflammatory balance and cardiovascular health risk.
An optimal ratio indicates a healthy balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, with more anti-inflammatory EPA relative to pro-inflammatory Arachidonic Acid.
A high Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio is typically associated with a greater tendency toward inflammation, which is linked to chronic conditions like heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and autoimmune disorders.
On the other hand, a lower Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio suggests a more favorable, anti-inflammatory state that may help reduce the risk of these conditions.
How do I optimize my Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio?
One of the most effective ways to improve the Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio is by increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA.
Omega-3s are found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. Consuming these regularly can help shift the balance in favor of anti-inflammatory EPA.
Limit the intake of foods high in omega-6 fatty acids, such as processed vegetable oils and many processed and fried foods.
High omega-6 intake increases the production of arachidonic acid and inflammatory mediators.
Reducing omega-6 intake can lower the Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio and reduce inflammation.
Achieving an appropriate balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fats is key.
While both types of fats are essential, most individuals consume an imbalance, with far more omega-6.
Correcting this imbalance by adjusting both omega-6 and omega-3 intake is crucial for health optimization.
What does a high or low Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio mean?
A high Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio is often indicative of excessive omega-6 fatty acids relative to omega-3s in the diet.
This imbalance promotes inflammation in the body, increasing the risk of chronic inflammatory conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
A low Arachidonic Acid/EPA ratio suggests a more favorable balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, with a higher proportion of anti-inflammatory omega-3s (particularly EPA).
This ratio is associated with reduced inflammation, which can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, arthritis, and neurodegenerative conditions.
Get started easily
Discover other biomarkers
Rheumatoid Factor
Bicarbonate
Urine Feme
