New knowledge on children’s Omega-3 index

The target Omega-3 Index for adults is ≥8%, while new research suggests that ≥6% is the optimal level for kids. 

The target Omega-3 Index for adults is ≥8% and are based on heart health indicators whereas in children, the beneficial outcomes of Omega fatty acids are measured in relation to cognition. This is because cognition is the most important developmental aspect to determine future health outcomes for the child. The most recent review on effects of Omega-3 in Children found that the most beneficial outcomes for cognition in children occur with an Omega-3 Index of ≥6% (van der Wurff et al., 2020). 

Omega-6 blood levels in children

Omega-6 is especially important during brain development and maturation.

A growing child’s Neurological health requires sufficient levels of AA (Arachidonic Acid) for the growth, repair, maintenance, and protection of neurons. Because of this crucial involvement in brain development, children naturally have a slightly higher percentage of Omega-6 levels in blood than adults. This is demonstrated in contemporary international research and confirmed in data from Zinzino’s database with over 800.000 blood tests in different age groups (See figure 1). 

Figure 1. The average n-6 AA, DGLA, %n-6 in HUFA, and total Omega-6 in children compared to adults. Note! Sample selected based on having the same level Omega-3 Index (>8), thus adjusted for age related dietary differences.   

 

BalanceTest health markers and children's threshold levels 

There is a difference between adults and children when it comes to optimal levels for each health marker in the Zinzino BalanceTest.  
As a result of the above-described metabolic growth and maturation-related differences in omega-3 and omega-6 blood status in children, all BalanceTest health markers have tailored threshold levels specific to children. For example, the Omega-6:3 ratio is naturally higher in children (5:1) than adults (3:1). Below, you can compare all thresholds levels for children and adults.