How to Read Your BalanceTest Results: Understanding Your Omega Health

How to Read Your BalanceTest Results: Understanding Your Omega Health

If you’ve recently taken a BalanceTest, congratulations on taking a science-backed step toward better health and longevity! This simple blood spot test gives you a detailed snapshot of your body’s fatty acid profile—helping you understand your inflammation risk and optimise your nutrition.

But what do all those numbers and ratios actually mean? In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to read your BalanceTest results, what each key marker tells you, and how to use this information to improve your wellbeing.

What is the BalanceTest?

The BalanceTest is a scientifically validated, at-home blood test that measures the levels of 11 different fatty acids in your blood, including Omega-3s, Omega-6s, and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). It’s used to assess your body’s balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory fats, giving you actionable insights to reduce chronic inflammation and support optimal health.

Why Red Blood Cell Flexibility Matters (and How Your Diet Makes a Difference)

Red blood cells (RBCs) are your body’s oxygen couriers, delivering vital oxygen to every tissue and organ. For this to happen efficiently, these cells need to be flexible—able to squeeze through the tiniest blood vessels (capillaries) without breaking or getting stuck.

What affects red blood cell flexibility?Your diet has a profound impact. Diets high in saturated fats and low in omega-3 fatty acids make red blood cell membranes more rigid and stiff. Saturated fats “harden” the cell membrane, while omega-3s (especially EPA and DHA) keep it fluid and flexible.

Why are rigid red blood cells a problem?  

• Poor circulation: Rigid RBCs struggle to pass through small capillaries, reducing oxygen delivery to your tissues. This can lead to fatigue, slower healing, and poor organ function.

• Impaired nutrient and waste exchange: Healthy, flexible cells allow good stuff (like oxygen and nutrients) to enter, and bad stuff (like carbon dioxide and cellular waste) to exit. Rigid cells are less efficient at this exchange, potentially leading to a build-up of toxins and less effective cell function.

• Accelerated ageing and disease risk: Over time, poor cell flexibility is linked to chronic inflammation, faster ageing, and a higher risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

How does the BalanceTest help?By measuring your omega-3 index and fatty acid profile, the BalanceTest gives you a window into your red blood cell health. Improving your omega-3 intake (and reducing excess saturated fat) helps restore cell flexibility, supports healthy circulation, and optimises how your cells exchange nutrients and remove waste—helping you feel and function at your best.

Key Markers in Your BalanceTest Report

1. Omega-6:3 Ratio (Balance Score)

• What it is: This ratio compares the amount of Omega-6 fatty acids to Omega-3s in your blood.

• Why it matters: A high Omega-6:3 ratio is linked to increased inflammation, higher risk of chronic disease, and accelerated ageing. The ideal target is 3:1 or lower.

• How to interpret:  

  • >5:1: High inflammation risk.

  • 3:1–5:1: Moderate risk; improvement needed.

  • ≤3:1: Optimal balance; lowest inflammation risk.

2. Omega-3 Index

• What it is: The Omega-3 Index measures the percentage of EPA and DHA (the most important Omega-3s) in your red blood cell membranes.

• Why it matters: Higher Omega-3 Index scores are associated with better heart, brain, and joint health, as well as reduced inflammation and improved cell flexibility.

• How to interpret:  

  • <4%: Low; increased risk for health issues.

  • 4–8%: Moderate; room for improvement.

  • 8–12%: Optimal; associated with longevity and resilience.

3. ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid)

• What it is: ALA is a plant-based Omega-3 fatty acid found in foods like flaxseed, chia, and walnuts. Your body can convert a small amount of ALA into EPA and DHA.

• Why it matters: While ALA is important, direct sources of EPA and DHA (from fish oil or marine supplements) have a much greater impact on your Omega-3 Index.

• How to interpret:  

  • Low ALA: May indicate a need for more plant-based Omega-3s in your diet.

  • Normal/Optimal ALA: Good, but focus on EPA/DHA intake for maximum benefit.

What Do My Results Mean for My Health?

• High Omega-6:3 Ratio + Low Omega-3 Index: Indicates a pro-inflammatory state and likely more rigid red blood cells. You may benefit from increasing high-quality Omega-3 intake and reducing processed seed oils and saturated fats.

• Balanced Ratio + High Omega-3 Index: You’re on the right track! Your red blood cells are likely flexible and efficient at delivering oxygen and exchanging nutrients.

• Low ALA: Consider adding more plant-based Omega-3 sources, but prioritise marine Omega-3s for greatest effect.

What Should I Do Next?

1. Adjust Your Diet: Increase fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) and consider supplementing with a high-quality Omega-3 oil (like Zinzino BalanceOil). Reduce intake of processed foods high in saturated fats.

2. Retest Every 4–6 Months: Track your progress and see how your changes affect your biomarkers.

3. Consult an Expert: If you’re unsure how to optimise your results, book a Zoom chat via Calendly, email drvix.manning@gmail.com, or call +44 7903 653077 for personalised guidance.

Why Balance Matters

Chronic inflammation and rigid red blood cells are silent drivers of ageing and disease. By understanding your BalanceTest results and taking action, you can lower inflammation, restore red blood cell flexibility, support your brain and heart, and feel your best at every age.

Ready to start your anti-inflammaging journey? Book a chat with Dr Vix Manning, email drvix.manning@gmail.com,