How to Test for Omega Imbalances: A Guide for Women Over 40
If you’re eating well but still don’t feel well, your omega balance might be out of sync — here’s how to test for omega imbalances and what to do with the results.
Why Test Your Omegas?
You’ve upgraded your oils, added avocado to your lunch, and you’re doing your best to nourish your midlife body — but you still feel “off.”
Low mood, dry skin, aching joints, energy dips, brain fog, even hormonal chaos.
Here’s something many women don’t realise: the fats you eat — and how your body uses them — can directly influence all of these symptoms. And sometimes, despite your best efforts, your fatty acid (omega) profile can still be out of balance.
That’s where omega testing comes in.
What Is an Omega Test?
An omega test (also called an Essential Fatty Acid Profile or Omega-3 Index) is a simple lab analysis that measures the levels and ratios of key fats in your blood. These include:
Omega-3s (EPA and DHA)
Omega-6s (like linoleic and arachidonic acid)
Monounsaturated fats
Saturated fats
Your omega-6 to omega-3 ratio — a key marker for inflammation
These results can shine a light on hidden imbalances that may be contributing to fatigue, hormonal disruption, mood instability and even cardiovascular risk.
Knowledge is power — especially when it comes to the fats fuelling your 40+ body.
Why Might You Be Out of Balance?
Nowadays, it is worryingly common for women to have an insufficient omega intake or imbalanced omega ratios.
BLANK STUDY.
Even a healthy-looking diet can lead to omega imbalances. These are some of the reasons why omega imbalnces can occur:
You eat out often (restaurant and packaged foods often use refined seed oils)
You’re not getting enough oily fish or plant-based omega-3s
Your digestion or liver function isn’t optimal (affecting absorption)
You have a genetic tendency
You’re dealing with chronic stress or low-grade inflammation
Why Testing Matters more in midlife
In your 40s and 50s, your body becomes more reactive to inflammation. Hormonal shifts can intensify this, affecting your mood, memory, metabolism and overall resilience.
Balancing your fatty acids gives your body what it needs to buffer those changes — and helps you feel more steady, clear and energised.
When you understand your own unique profile, you move from confusion to clarity — and that’s incredibly empowering.
If you’re eating well but still don’t feel well, testing your fatty acid balance might be the missing piece.
How Is the Omega Test Done?
You might be new to the idea of omega testing. It may not be available through your GP (like the test for Vitamin D or iron) but it’s value is becoming more widely recognised and this may well change in the near-future.
For now, many functional medicine practitioners, integrative nutritionists or private labs offer this test, which is simple and accessible:
At-home finger-prick tests
In-clinic blood draws
The reputable test options in the UK includes:
OmegaQuant Omega-3 Index
Genova Diagnostics ION Profile
(The omegaQuant test kit is used in the Essential Omega MOT).
What Do the Results Tell You?
Your test report will show:
Levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
Whether your ratios are supporting or driving inflammation
Any excesses or deficiencies
How your total fatty acid profile compares to optimal ranges
This gives you clarity and insights that help you make targeted changes to your diet or supplements — instead of guessing.
What to Do With Your Omega Test Results
Any provider who shows you how to test for omega imbalances should also include a follow-up service, so you fully understand your results and have clear guidance on what to do next.
So once you have your profile, it’s time to take action.
Typically this includes making mindful changes to your diet, but you may also be recommended an omega-3 supplement.
Often there are imbalances or deficiencies to correct and supplements offer a more rapid and convenient way to build a foundational balance of the essential omega fats and oils.
A follow-up test in 3–6 months can help show how your efforts are working.
Typical next steps after testing for an omega imbalance
You may be guided on how to:
Increase omega-3s with salmon, sardines, flaxseed, chia or algae oil
Reduce omega-6s by limiting processed foods and seed oils
Balance your ratios with targeted food choices or quality supplements
- Address any other imbalances including levels of trans fats and saturated fats
You will also have the option to:
Work with a practitioner to address root causes and continue tracking your progress
The Bottom Line
Understanding your omega balance can be a game-changer for midlife health. Knowledge is power — especially when it comes to the fats fuelling your 40+ body.
With the right insights, you can make simple, targeted changes. With a balanced and strong omega foundation you can then support your hormones, mood and energy — from the inside out.
Midlife can feel like your body’s speaking a whole new language — and fats are a big part of that conversation. I’ve seen firsthand (in myself and my clients) how small, informed tweaks in fat intake can lead to clearer thinking, better moods and more balanced energy.
If you’re curious to dig deeper, my Essential Omega MOT service is designed to take the guesswork out. We test your levels, translate the results and create a personalised plan to get your fats — and your health — working for you.