Omega-3, Vitamin D3, and CoQ10: A Label Vocabulary Guide

Longevity categories often look simple on the surface and confusing in the details. The confusion usually comes from label vocabulary: different units, different forms, and different naming conventions.

This guide is about decoding the common terms, not about chasing the ‘best’ version of anything.

Omega-3: EPA, DHA, fish oil, algae oil

Omega-3 products often highlight EPA and DHA on the label. Some products use fish oil; others use algae oil. The category also shows up as liquids or softgels, and the format changes the routine experience.

If you ever feel confused by bottle size, focus on serving definition and what the label highlights inside that serving.

Vitamin D: IU vs mcg, D2 vs D3

Vitamin D labels may use IU or micrograms, and you may see D2 or D3. This is one of the most common places where people feel like they’re comparing apples to oranges.

A practical approach is to keep comparisons consistent: same unit style, similar format, and a clear serving definition.

CoQ10: ubiquinone vs ubiquinol

CoQ10 products may list ubiquinone or ubiquinol. The label language is often used as a differentiator, and some brands present it as a premium choice.

For many shoppers, the more immediate decision is format preference and whether they want a simple single-ingredient product or a blend.

A minimalist mindset helps

These categories can easily become a collection of bottles. If you prefer a calmer routine, choose one category at a time and let it become normal before adding another.

A small start for this week

If you want this to feel doable, pick one small move and keep it consistent long enough to become normal. The goal is not a perfect routine; it’s a repeatable one.

• Choose a repeatable strength routine (even twice a week is a strong anchor).
• Add steps in small pieces: calls, errands, or a short after-dinner walk.
• Protect sleep timing so your week feels predictable.

Once the routine feels stable, you can add another layer. Stability first makes everything else easier.

Where people get stuck

Most confusion comes from mixing categories and comparing products that are labeled differently. Keeping the vocabulary straight makes everything feel calmer and more readable.

• Collecting supplements while avoiding the boring basics (strength, steps, sleep).
• All-or-nothing plans that don’t survive travel or busy seasons.
• Adding multiple new categories at once and creating routine confusion.

Words you’ll see on labels

• EPA
• DHA
• fish oil
• algae oil
• softgels
• liquid

If a label feels like it’s speaking a different language, that’s usually not your fault. Categories use different units and naming conventions, and brands emphasize different parts of the same information.