SNP MEP Alyn Smith today (8 June) called for greater awareness of the benefits of Omega 3 after receiving his own test results at the University of Stirling's world-leading Institute for Aquaculture.
The Institute of Aquaculture is the leading international centre in its field and is the largest of its kind in the world. The Institute developed the Omega Blood Count™ test which can test Omega 3 levels with a simple pinprick, as opposed to a blood sample.
Alyn said: “Scots can really benefit from this research as we are able to test the amount of Omega 3 we have in our diet much more easily as the method is now faster, cheaper and less invasive.
“The health benefits of Omega 3 are proven to counteract a number of ailments which blight Scottish society, such as heart disease and disorders such as ADHD.
"My own test came in at 30% which, while not bad for Scotland, is still far below where it should be. I like to think of myself as a health conscious person, however the results show I could certainly benefit from more Omega 3 in my diet.
“Our nation’s health is continuing to improve but, in certain areas, we do still fall short of where a progressive European nation should be. We must do all we can to continue to improve and, if that involves eating more fish, then I’m sure we can all bite that bullet. I’m sure our fishing industry would be just as happy as our GPs.
"I was delighted to be invited to the University's Institute for Aquaculture to see for myself the first-class work that takes place here. This ground-breaking centre has helped put Scotland on the map for excellence in science and research."