Nutrients

RBC Fatty Acid Profile

Unit: %ID: N017

What This Test Measures

Comprehensive fatty acid analysis of red blood cell membranes

Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range

Conventional "Normal"
Varies by fatty acid %
Your doctor says you're "fine" anywhere in this range
Functional Optimal
Balanced omega-6:omega-3 ratio <4:1 %
This is where you actually feel great

The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.

Gabriel's Take

RBC fatty acid profile shows your membrane composition. Key metric: omega-6:omega-3 ratio. Modern diets are 15-20:1 (inflammatory). Functional optimal <4:1. High omega-6 (from seed oils) + low omega-3 = chronic inflammation, heart disease, depression. Gabriel uses this to personalize fat intake.

When This Test Is High

High omega-6:omega-3 ratio = inflammation

When This Test Is Low

Low omega-3s = cardiovascular and cognitive risk

Related Conditions

Chronic inflammation, cardiovascular disease, mood disorders

Recommended Follow-Up

Optimize omega-3 intake, reduce omega-6 (seed oils); target ratio <4:1