Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) vs Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols/Tocotrienols)

Mechanism

EPA and DHA incorporate into cell membrane phospholipids, modulating membrane fluidity and lipid raft signaling. EPA competitively inhibits arachidonic acid conversion via COX-2 and 5-LOX, reducing pro-inflammatory eicosanoids (PGE2, LTB4) while generating anti-inflammatory resolvins and protectins. DHA is critical for neuronal membrane integrity, modulating BDNF expression and synaptic plasticity via Nrf2 and NF-kB pathways.

Standard Dosing

2-4g combined EPA/DHA daily (targeting 2:1 EPA:DHA ratio for inflammation; 1:1 for cognitive)

Timing

With meals containing fat for absorption. Split dose AM/PM.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• Fishy burps/aftertaste
• Mild GI upset
• Loose stools at high doses
• Potential increased LDL in some individuals

Contraindications

• Active bleeding disorders
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue 2 weeks prior)
• Fish/shellfish allergy (use algal-derived)

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Mechanism

Vitamin E family comprises 4 tocopherols (alpha, beta, gamma, delta) and 4 tocotrienols. Alpha-tocopherol is the primary lipid-soluble, chain-breaking antioxidant in cell membranes, intercepting peroxyl radicals to halt lipid peroxidation. Gamma-tocopherol uniquely traps reactive nitrogen species (peroxynitrite). Tocotrienols have additional properties: inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase (cholesterol lowering), NF-kB suppression, induction of apoptosis in cancer cells, and neuroprotection. The full spectrum provides synergistic antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cell signaling functions.

Standard Dosing

200-400 IU mixed tocopherols + 50-100mg tocotrienols daily

Timing

With fat-containing meal.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• GI upset at high doses
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Blurred vision (rare)
• Increased all-cause mortality signal at >400 IU synthetic dl-alpha-tocopherol in meta-analyses

Contraindications

• Vitamin K deficiency or warfarin therapy (at high doses)
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue 2 weeks prior at >400 IU)
• Retinitis pigmentosa (alpha-tocopherol contraindicated in some forms)

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