Episode #151: Dr. Bill Harris: Fatty Acids and The Omega-3 Index

<p dir="ltr">Did you know your omega-3 levels can be predictive of good health outcomes and cholesterol levels? An Omega-3 Index of 8% or higher is ideal, yet most people have a percentage of around 4-6%. </p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Today we’re discussing why it’s important to measure your omega-3 levels, and what you can do to optimize these levels. Plus, we’ll answer the question: is there a relationship between fatty acids and longevity?</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I’m joined by Dr. Bill Harris, PhD, FASN, President of the Fatty Acid Research Institute and Founder of OmegaQuant Analytics. We’re diving into omega-6s and omega-3s and discussing the benefits of these fatty acids and where they come from. We also cover the importance of maintaining a ratio of omega-6 and omega-3, and whether or not omega-3s have an effect on blood clotting and blood circulation.</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Dr. Harris has been a leading researcher in the omega-3 fatty acid field for over 40 years. He has more than 300 scientific papers on fatty acids and health, the vast majority on omega-3. He has been on the faculty of three medical schools (Universities of Kansas, Missouri (at Kansas City), and South Dakota), and has received 5 NIH grants to study omega-3. He was the co-author on three AHA statements on fatty acids and heart health. As the co-inventor of the Omega-3 Index (and other omega-3 blood tests) and founder of OmegaQuant Analytics, Dr. Harris has been ranked among the top 2% of scientists worldwide based on the impact of his research. </p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>What we discuss:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">00:02:38 - Omega-3s and their effects on blood clotting and blood circulation </p> <p dir="ltr">00:07:23 - The value of omega-6</p> <p dir="ltr">00:11:54 - The ratio of omega-6 and omega-3</p> <p dir="ltr">00:18:03 - Where do arachidonic acid and linoleic acid come from, and what do they do?</p> <p dir="ltr">00:21:32 - The signs and symptoms of omega-6