Part 3: When the membranes oxidize — The Downward Spiral

So far: struggling mitochondria leak free radicals, and the antioxidant supply gets used up.

When the supply runs low, free radicals can start damaging the cell membrane. Membranes are built from fats, and fats are easy for free radicals to damage. This is called oxidation, the same chemistry that turns butter rancid.

A damaged membrane can lose flexibility and protection. That's step 3.

Some of the fats in your membranes, called plasmalogens, appear to act as built-in free-radical scavengers. In some research, low plasmalogen levels have been associated with a number of health conditions. That's an association, not proof that low levels cause them.

In your labs

Labs that offer a clue:

DHA and EPA. These omega-3 fats are building blocks of membranes. Low levels suggest the raw material may be short.
Cholesterol. It's a structural part of every cell membrane, and a healthy level often goes along with healthy cells.
Choline. The body uses it to build membrane fats.

Read about choline →See where your labs land →

Next, in Part 4: How a damaged membrane makes it harder for nutrients to get in.

Educational information only — not medical advice. Lab testing and any supplementation decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare provider who knows your personal health history. Research findings vary by population, dose, form, and study quality.

Some links go to Fullscript, where I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend supplements I've either used myself or seen work in my clients' lab data. Results vary from person to person.