GLOSSARY

Omega-3 Index is a red-cell EPA and DHA measure describing biological status, not fish-oil grams consumed or guaranteed sporting readiness.

The omega-3 index usually expresses erythrocyte EPA plus DHA as a percentage of total red-cell fatty acids. It differs from supplement amount or a momentary plasma result. Assay method and exposure duration affect interpretation. It is neither a compulsory test nor a universal performance target for all athletes, and alone cannot determine personal supplement dosing.

Circulating fatty acids occur both as albumin-bound non-esterified molecules and esterified within particle triglycerides and phospholipids. A study reporting a fatty-acid level must identify the measured fraction. A component's percentage in phospholipids differs from its absolute concentration in whole blood; direct comparison without matching fractions and units can be misleading.

The fish-oil amount on a package front is not necessarily its EPA and DHA content; other fatty acids may make up a substantial fraction. Compare each component per actual serving and identify the source. Algal oil can also provide a direct source, but formulations vary and marine branding does not guarantee quantity or purity.