Research

Macro partitioning

Optimal dietary ratios of omega-6 to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (specifically 1:1 or 5:1) are more beneficial for lipid metabolism and inflammation than higher ratios (10:1).

To maximize anti-inflammatory benefits, aim for a lower omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in your diet. Research suggests ratios of 1:1 or 5:1 are superior to the typical Western ratio of 10:1 or higher. Achieve this by increasing intake of omega-3 sources (fatty fish, flaxseeds) and reducing high-omega-6 vegetable oils (corn, soybean, sunflower oils).

ModerateQualifiesMEDIUM confidence
These results indicated that the optimal ω-6/ω-3 PUFA ratios of 1/1 and 5/1 exerted more beneficial effects on lipid metabolism and inflammatory system than other ratios.
Esther Tortosa-Caparrós et al. · Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition · 2016

Why this rating

Based on animal studies (pigs) and in vitro data, with some human observational data, but less robust than the large RCTs for general CV risk.

Source

Anti-inflammatory effects of omega 3 and omega 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome

Esther Tortosa-Caparrós et al. · Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition · 2016

DOI 10.1080/10408398.2015.1126549

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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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