BalanceTest - Zinzino

Zinzino's BalanceTest offers a simple and reliable way to analyze the fatty acid balance in your blood.
With just a few drops of blood from your fingertip, collected using the scientifically proven Dried Blood Spot (DBS) technique, you get accurate insights comparable to a venous blood sample.

Thanks to the use of Whatman® filter paper, the test is quick and easy to take - you'll be done in under a minute!

Additional facts

User-friendly self-test with dried blood drop
Measures 11 fatty acids in your blood
Provides data on your Omega-6:3 balance

This test analyzes 11 different fatty acids, including saturated, monounsaturated (Omega-9) and polyunsaturated (Omega-6 and Omega-3) fatty acids. Individual fatty acid values are clearly displayed in a table and expressed as percentages of the total number of fatty acids measured. For comparison, the average range for each fatty acid is presented, based on data from a large group of balanced individuals, allowing you to compare your results against a target value. The following fatty acids are analyzed:
Palmitic acid, C16:0, saturated fat
Stearic acid, C18:0, saturated fat
Oleic acid, C18:1, Omega-9
Linoleic acid, C18:2, Omega-6
Alpha-linolenic acid, C18:3, Omega-3
Gamma-linolenic acid, C18:3, Omega-6
Dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid, C20:3, Omega-6
Arachidonic acid (AA), C20:4, Omega-6
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), C20:5, Omega-3
Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), C22:5, Omega-3
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), C22:6, Omega-3

Here's how your results are calculated: This analysis examines 11 fatty acids, the total amount of which is considered 100%. 7 of these fatty acids are used to calculate 6 specific values. The amount of each of these 7 fatty acids is determined as a percentage of that total 100%, giving you an accurate understanding of your fatty acid balance.
1. Omega-3 eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).
2. Omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
3. Omega-3 docosapentaenoic acid (DPA).
4. Omega-6 arachidonic acid (AA)
5. Omega-6 dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA)
6. Saturated fat, palmitic acid (PA)
7. Saturated fat, stearic acid (SA)

Protection value
First, the following 3 recognized health indicators are calculated:
1. The value for the Omega-6 ratio is calculated as follows: (DGLA+AA) * 100 / (DGLA+AA+EPA+DPA+DHA)
2. The value for the Omega-3 level is the sum of EPA+DHA
3. The balance value is calculated as Omega-6 (AA) / Omega-3 (EPA)

In a second calculation, each indicator value is given equal weight and a score between 0 and 100 is assigned. This is then divided by 3 to determine the protection value, with an ideal score being above 90. This does not give a direct indication of overall health, but only shows the protection level of fatty acids. Keep in mind that EPA and DHA levels have a significant impact on all calculations. When these percentages are low, extremely low or even zero protection values may occur.

**Omega-3 Index**
The Omega-3 Index lists the percentages of the two marine Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. An optimal combined level is at least 8%, with a value of 10% being even more desirable. Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role as essential building blocks of our cells. EPA is mainly found in the blood, muscles and body tissues, while DHA is mainly present in the brain, sperm and eyes.
Fluidity of cell membranes The fluidity of cell membranes is calculated by dividing the percentage of two saturated fatty acids by the percentage of two Omega-3 fatty acids. This yields a fluidity index, for example 3:1. A value lower than 4:1 indicates sufficient flexibility in the membranes.

Cell membrane structure is influenced by fatty acid composition: saturated fats make the membrane firmer, while polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as Omega-3s, provide more fluidity. A healthy balance between firmness and flexibility is essential, as the membrane must be firm enough to support cellular structure, but also fluid enough to optimize nutrient absorption and waste removal.

**Mental Strength**
The mental strength value is calculated by dividing the percentage of arachidonic acid (AA) by the sum of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), represented as AA / (EPA + DHA). This yields a score, for example, 1:1.

A value below 1:1 indicates a balanced and adequate supply of Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids to the brain and nervous system. Increasing the intake of marine Omega-3s, such as EPA and DHA, can enhance cognitive performance. Especially in vulnerable stages of life such as childhood and old age, Omega-3 deficiency has been linked to learning and memory problems, as well as mood disorders.

**Arachidonic Acid (AA) Index**
The AA index represents the percentage of the Omega-6 fatty acid arachidonic acid (AA) within the total measured fatty acids. A healthy average ranges between 6.5% and 9.5%, with an optimal value of 8.3%.

Arachidonic acid (AA) plays a crucial role as the primary Omega-6 fatty acid in the body. It forms the basis for the production of local tissue hormones such as prostaglandins, thromboxanes and leukotrienes, which perform various functions. Their main function is to protect the body from damage by controlling infections and limiting the impact of injury.

**Certified test kit**
The Zinzino Dried Blood Drop Test complies with European Regulation 98/79/EC for in vitro diagnostic (IVD) medical devices. This certification ensures that the test and all associated components comply with applicable laws and regulations. In addition, the test kit bears the CE mark, confirming compliance with high quality and safety standards.

Instructions for use:
Taking the test 1. The Zinzino test is an approved in vitro diagnostic product for taking a blood sample yourself at home.
- First wash your hands with soap, rinse well with warm water and dry them.

2. Remove the sample card from the paper envelope. Keep the envelope to use later. Tear the BEWARE portion of the sample card and take a picture of the Test ID. You can view exclusivelyyour test results with your anonymous Test ID. Place the card with the two circles facing up on the table.

3. Stimulate blood flow by making large circles with your arm or shaking your hand downward for 20 seconds.

4. Remove the single-use lancet from the package. Remove the transparent safety cap and the lancet is ready to use. Use an alcohol wipe to clean your fingertip (middle finger is recommended). Place the lancet against the lower part of the fingertip facing the collection paper on the table. Push the top of the lancet against the finger until you hear a click. The lancet automatically makes a small puncture in the finger.

5. Do not touch the filter paper with your fingers.

6. Fill the circles one by one with blood. Gently squeeze your finger and wait for a drop of blood to fall into the circle. If one drop of blood does not cover the circle, immediately drop another drop of blood from your finger. Leave the sample card in a horizontal position at room temperature for at least 10 minutes to allow the samples to dry thoroughly.

7. Place the sample card back into the paper envelope. Then place the paper envelope in the metal bag and close it.

IMPORTANT: Do not remove the silica gel bag from the metal bag.

8. Place the closed metal bag in the large envelope with the laboratory address on it.

NOTE: You must stamp the envelope sufficiently (with stamps) before putting it in the mail. To register your test code, go to www.zinzinotest.com. This is the web page where you can see your test results later. It will take 10-20 days to get your results.

IMPORTANT: Keep the SAFE section of the card. You can only view your test results with your anonymous test ID.