The Omega-3 Index is a measurement, not an intake. It shows how much of the fatty acids in red blood cells is EPA and DHA.
Because red blood cells live for about four months, the index reflects your diet over the last few months, not just the last few days. That is also why a retest is usually planned around 120 days after the first.
The index tells you where you are. It does not tell you why, and it is not a diagnosis.
Sources
- [source pending] Source needed: original definition of the Omega-3 Index (EPA + DHA as % of red blood cell fatty acids)
- [source pending] Source needed: red blood cell lifespan (~120 days) and how fast membrane fatty acids change