Firm’s new fatty acids test could help prevent disease

The sister company of SureScreen Diagnostics has launched a new lab test to help people take control of their Omega-3 fatty acids.

SureScreen Scientifics has launched a new service under its NeoVos brand to enable people to find out if they are lacking in fatty acids, which are necessary to prevent disease.

The Omega-3 test, which involves taking a blood sample via and finger-prick and sending the results off to the company’s lab, in Morley, near Derby, is one of a number of home tests offered by NeoVos to help people better understand their bodies.

Its other tests measure a person’s Vitamin D levels, while the other analyses the general health of the bacteria living in their gut.

Omega-3 fatty acids are key building blocks of all the cells in our bodies, including those in our brains, and so are essential for mental and physical health.

However, there are very few regular sources of Omega-3 in our Western diet – they are most commonly found in fish – and, as a result, deficiencies and imbalances are widespread.

This leads to a range of diseases related to inflammation, raised blood pressure, arthritis, heart disease and skin conditions such as acne.

There is also emerging evidence from the latest research on the benefits of optimal Omega-3 levels with regards to bone, teeth and eye health, gut health and pregnancy health.

Troy Whyte, managing director of SureScreen Scientifics, said: “Our tests are at the cutting edge of an area of science that has huge potential for helping people to change their eating habits for good and change their health and life expectations.

“In general, the population of Britain is fairly Omega-3 deficient and people with plant-based diets are particularly prone to these deficiencies.

“However, emerging sources of vegan fatty acids EPA and DHA in the form of algal oil-based products mean that everyone now has the opportunity to improve their levels.

“The technology we have available makes doing that via this test straightforward, which is why everyone should check to see where they stand and find out how to improve their levels.”