AA / EPA ratio
Omega fatty acidsAlso known as: arachidonic to EPA ratio, inflammation ratio, arachidonic to eicosapentaenoic acid ratio, omega
This ratio compares arachidonic acid (pro-inflammatory omega-6) to eicosapentaenoic acid (anti-inflammatory omega-3).
Reference range
| Level | Range |
|---|---|
| Upper intermediate | above 10.8 |
| Normal | 2 to 10.8 |
| Lower intermediate | below 2 |
Source: lab benchmark
* Reference ranges may vary between labs and assays. Always interpret results with your healthcare provider.
Why this matters
A high AA/EPA ratio indicates a dominance of inflammatory lipid mediators and greater risk of chronic inflammation and cardiovascular disease. Maintaining a balanced ratio supports optimal immune and vascular health.
How this connects to other biomarkers
- AA/EPA Ratio is a key inflammation balance marker — ratios > 10 indicate a pro-inflammatory eicosanoid state, while values 1–3 reflect optimal omega-3 status.
- Elevated AA/EPA with high hs-CRP confirms diet-driven systemic inflammation; combine with the Omega-3 Index for a more complete read.
- Responds rapidly to EPA-rich fish oil supplementation.
How often should I test AA / EPA ratio?
Most adults benefit from yearly AA/EPA ratio testing as part of a fatty acid panel. After a sustained change in diet or supplementation, retest at 3 to 4 months.
At baseline / for screening: Once every 12 months as part of a fatty acid panel. More frequently, every 3 to 6 months, if you're managing a cardiometabolic concern where fatty acids matter.
When monitoring an intervention or change: Retest 3 to 4 months after a sustained change in dietary fat, such as increasing fatty fish, omega-3 supplements (EPA/DHA), or reducing seed oils. Red cell membranes take this long to fully reflect the new intake. Day-to-day variability is minimal, so only sustained dietary patterns shift the picture meaningfully; don't expect quick changes from short-term diet shifts.
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