The ratio says how many parts omega-6 there are for each part omega-3. A ratio of 12:1 means twelve times as much omega-6 as omega-3.
A typical Western diet often gives a high ratio, because a lot of omega-6 comes from cooking oils and processed food. A ratio of around 3:1 or lower is often used as a reference point.
Researchers debate how much weight the ratio alone should carry, so it should be read together with the Omega-3 Index and the rest of the fatty-acid profile.
Sources
- [source pending] Source needed: Norwegian intake data (e.g. Norkost) or test data on the typical omega-6:3 ratio in Norwegian adults
- [source pending] Source needed: where the commonly used reference point of about 3:1 (or lower) for the omega-6:3 ratio comes from, and how it is used by laboratories
- [source pending] Source needed: review discussing the usefulness and limits of the omega-6:3 ratio as a marker