NANP Board Practice Exam

What is the typical omega 3 to omega 6 ratio observed in the U.S.?

1. 1:10 to 1:25

2. 1:1 to 1:5

3. 1:2

4. 1:5 to 1:15

The correct answer is: 1:10 to 1:25

The typical omega-3 to omega-6 ratio observed in the U.S. is indeed aligned with the range of 1:10 to 1:25. This reflects the western dietary patterns, which are often characterized by a high intake of omega-6 fatty acids primarily from processed foods and vegetable oils, while the intake of omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, tends to be lower. Research indicates that many Americans consume significantly more omega-6 than omega-3, resulting in an imbalance that can have implications for health, including increased inflammation. The other ranges suggested do not accurately represent the general consumption patterns. The 1:1 to 1:5 ratio indicates a balanced intake of omega-3 and omega-6 that is closer to what is often recommended for optimal health, which is not the case in the U.S. Similarly, a ratio of 1:2 implies a much higher intake of omega-3s relative to omega-6s than what is typically seen in American diets. Lastly, the 1:5 to 1:15 range, while it may represent some diets, still falls short of capturing the predominance of omega-6 consumption in the overall U.S. diet.