Does omega-3 status have an effect on colds and the flu among GrassrootsHealth participants?

Published on November 19, 2019

In earlier posts we showed that fewer GrassrootsHealth participants with higher vitamin D status and those who regularly took vitamin C experienced a cold or the flu compared to those with a lower status or did not take vitamin C. Omega-3 fatty acids may also help prevent infection. Today, we’ll explore whether omega-3 status has an effect on the occurrence of colds and the flu among GrassrootsHealth participants.

Using the data you provided for the GrassrootsHealth study, we found that the percent of participants who experienced the flu in the prior 6 months was 38% lower for those with an Omega-3 Index at or above 8% compared to those with an Index below 8%. For colds, it was 11% lower. However, these differences were not statistically significant.

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This preliminary analysis suggests that improving Omega-3 status alone could reduce the risk of experiencing a cold or the flu; however, we will need to assess again after more participants complete an Omega-3 test to see if the results are statistically significant with a larger sample size and adjust for other biometric and lifestyle risk factors. In a coming post to this series, we will explore further by assessing the combined effects of vitamin C, vitamin D, and Omega-3 status on colds and the flu. These analyses of individual and combined nutrient effects from GrassrootsHealth are possible because YOU provide us with data on multiple nutrients and health outcomes.

How are your nutrient levels for cold and flu season?

Make sure you know your vitamin D level (with a target of 40-60 ng/ml or 100-150 nmol/L), as well as your Omega-3 Index (with a target of 8% or higher) and levels of essential nutrients, such as magensium. Through GrassrootsHealth Nutrient Research Institute, you can also test your inflammation levels, including your level of hsCRP. Find out your levels today! Log on to the shop (click the link below) to get your tests and see for yourself if your level can be improved.

Make sure you track your results before and after, about every 6 months!

Click Here to Access the Shop Page

How can I track my nutrient intake and levels over time?

To help you track your supplement use and nutrient levels, GrassrootsHealth has created an online tracking system called myData-myAnswers. For each specific supplement, you can track what days you take it, how much, and many other details. This will help you know your true supplemental intake and what patterns of use work for you to reach and maintain optimum nutrient levels. Check it out today!

How Can You Use this Information for YOUR Health?

Having and maintaining healthy vitamin D and other nutrient levels can help improve your health now and for your future. Measuring is the only way to make sure you are getting enough!

STEP 1 Order your at-home blood spot test kit to measure vitamin D and other nutrients of concern to you, such as omega-3s, magnesium, essential and toxic elements (zinc, copper, selenium, lead, cadmium, mercury); include hsCRP as a marker of inflammation or HbA1c for blood sugar health

STEP 2 Answer the online questionnaire as part of the GrassrootsHealth study

STEP 3 Using our educational materials and tools (such as our dose calculators), assess your results to determine if you are in your desired target range or if actions should be taken to get there

STEP 4 After 3-6 months of implementing your changes, re-test to see if you have achieved your target level(s)

Enroll in D*action and Build Your Custom Test Kit!