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Cardiovascular

Omega-3 test without a GP referral

An omega-3 test measures your Omega-3 Index in your red blood cells. That index is the share of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. You can test your omega-3 with a blood test, without a referral from your GP.

The Omega-3 Index shows whether you are short of omega-3. A low value means you ate little EPA and DHA in the past two to three months. Omega-3 plays a role in inflammation and in recovery after exercise.

For the omega-3 blood test, a partner laboratory draws a tube of blood from your arm. It is not a finger prick at home, and you do not need to fast. You get your Omega-3 Index as a percentage, and a BIG-registered doctor assesses your result. Allow about 96 hours after the blood draw.

Doctor's Assessment Included

When is this value abnormal?

Decision limits per result, in % fs ges.
Result Value (% fs ges.)
Deficiency < 4
Insufficient 4–8
Target met ≥ 8

The Omega-3 Index measures EPA and DHA as a percentage of the total fatty acids in red blood cell membranes. The laboratory applies the same limits on your result: < 4.0 low cardioprotection, 4.0–8.0 moderate, > 8.0 good. The target value in the literature is 8–11 %; the Dutch average is 6.06 % (n = 1,974), so below the target. The limits apply only to the standardised measurement in red blood cells; a measurement in serum or plasma cannot be compared with these values.

Source: Netherlands Heart Journal Reference population: Dutch population (Neth Heart J 2023, n = 1,974; mean 6.06 %)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Omega-3 Index: what this test measures

This test measures EPA and DHA as a percentage of total fatty acids in red blood cell membranes, reflecting omega-3 intake over the previous 2-3 months.

Omega-3 Index: why this value matters

An Omega-3 Index above 8% is generally associated with lower cardiovascular risk. Values below 4% may indicate increased risk. It is a modifiable marker that responds well to dietary changes. Consult your healthcare provider.

Omega-3 Index: how the blood test works

Referral
No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
The draw
A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
Which test
on its own €163,-
Where
650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites

Omega-3 Index: when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended as part of cardiovascular risk assessment, to evaluate omega-3 supplementation effectiveness, or to guide nutritional optimisation.

Omega-3 Index: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

A low Omega-3 Index does not cause direct symptoms but may be associated with increased cardiovascular risk and a more pro-inflammatory state.

High Levels

A high Omega-3 Index is generally favourable and associated with cardiovascular protection. Very high levels are rare and not typically a concern.

Omega-3 Index: what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low omega-3 index increases cardiovascular risk. Consider fish oil supplementation or more oily fish.

If High

High omega-3 index is protective for heart health.

Female

If Low

Low omega-3 index increases cardiovascular risk. Consider fish oil supplementation or more oily fish.

If High

High omega-3 index is protective for heart health.

Omega-3 Index: lifestyle and this value

Eat fatty fish at least twice per week (salmon, mackerel, sardines). Consider a quality omega-3 supplement if dietary intake is insufficient. Results typically improve within 2-3 months of consistent intake changes.

Omega-3 Index: frequently asked questions

What is a good Omega-3 Index?

An Omega-3 Index of 8% or higher is generally considered optimal for cardiovascular protection. Below 4% is considered high risk. Your healthcare provider can interpret your specific result.

How quickly can I improve my Omega-3 Index?

With consistent dietary changes or supplementation, improvements may be seen within 2-3 months, as the test reflects red blood cell turnover.

Is the Omega-3 Index better than measuring blood omega-3?

The Omega-3 Index reflects long-term omega-3 status (similar to HbA1c for glucose), making it more stable and clinically useful than a single blood measurement.

Omega-3 Index: sources

  1. von Schacky C, Kuipers RS, Pijl H, Muskiet FAJ, Grobbee DE. Omega-3 fatty acids in heart disease — why accurately measured levels matter. Neth Heart J 2023;31(11):415–423. PMID 36795219. DOI 10.1007/s12471-023-01759-2. Grenswaarden oorspronkelijk uit: Harris WS, von Schacky C. The Omega-3 Index: a new risk factor for death from coronary heart disease? Prev Med 2004;39(1):212–20. PMID 15208005. (retrieved 2026) pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

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Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
CIBG Ministerie van Volksgezondheid,
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Omega-3 Index

€163,-