Aterosan Omega-3: Product Review & Analysis
Aterosan Omega-3 is a fish oil-based supplement marketed primarily for cardiovascular support. The product contains EPA and DHA — the two most important omega-3 fatty acids, whose benefits are extensively documented in scientific literature. In this review, we analyze Aterosan's composition, compare it to alternatives, and help you decide whether it's the right choice.
TL;DR
- Aterosan Omega-3 is a concentrated fish oil with EPA and DHA
- Primary target: people looking to support cardiovascular health
- EPA and DHA amounts per capsule matter more than total "fish oil" on the label
- Quality omega-3 must be purified from heavy metals and dioxins
- Price in Estonia: €15-30 depending on package size
What do omega-3 fatty acids actually do?
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential — your body cannot synthesize them, so they must come from diet or supplements.
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) — the primary anti-inflammatory omega-3. Research shows EPA reduces serum triglycerides and supports vascular health (Calder, 2015). EPA is also linked to mood regulation.
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) — the main structural fatty acid in the brain and retina. DHA makes up to 40% of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the cerebral cortex (Innis, 2007). Especially important during pregnancy and childhood for brain development.
Why EPA/DHA content matters more than total amount
A typical fish oil capsule contains 1000 mg of fish oil, but only about 300 mg is actually EPA+DHA. Concentrated products like Aterosan offer a higher EPA/DHA ratio, meaning you need fewer capsules to reach an effective dose.
Aterosan composition analysis
| Component | Amount per capsule | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fish oil | 1000 mg | Concentrated form |
| EPA | ~360 mg | Anti-inflammatory |
| DHA | ~240 mg | Brain and eye support |
| Vitamin E | Trace | Antioxidant, preservative |
Assessment: Aterosan's EPA/DHA ratio (60% active ingredients) is better than typical cheap fish oil (30%), but falls below premium products offering 80-90% concentration.
Dosage
Recommendations based on international guidelines:
| Goal | EPA+DHA daily | Capsules (Aterosan) |
|---|---|---|
| General health | 250-500 mg | 1 capsule |
| Cardiovascular support | 1000-2000 mg | 2-3 capsules |
| Triglyceride reduction | 2000-4000 mg | 4-6 capsules |
| Pregnancy (DHA focus) | 200-300 mg DHA | 1 capsule |
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) has approved health claims for EPA and DHA at doses of 250 mg/day for maintaining normal heart function.
How to choose an omega-3 product
Key factors to check:
1. EPA+DHA amount per capsule — this is the actual active dose, not the total fish oil amount
2. Purity — IFOS (International Fish Oil Standards) certification confirms low heavy metal and dioxin content
3. Freshness — oxidized fish oil is harmful; check the TOTOX value (<26)
4. Form — triglyceride form absorbs better than ethyl ester form (Dyerberg et al., 2010)
5. Fish source — smaller fish (anchovy, sardine) contain fewer contaminants than larger ones (tuna, salmon)
Aterosan's strengths and weaknesses
Strengths:
- Available in pharmacies — trust factor
- Reasonable EPA/DHA concentration
- Good value for the quality level
Weaknesses:
- Not the highest concentration on the market
- Limited IFOS certification information
- Ethyl ester form (some versions)
Alternatives comparison
| Product | EPA+DHA/capsule | Form | Cost/month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aterosan Omega-3 | ~600 mg | Fish oil | ~€15-20 |
| Nordic Naturals Ultimate | ~1280 mg | Triglyceride | ~€30-40 |
| Krill oil | ~200 mg | Phospholipid | ~€20-30 |
| Algae oil | ~500 mg DHA | Triglyceride | ~€25-35 |
Common mistakes when choosing omega-3
- Looking only at total amount — "1000 mg fish oil" means nothing if EPA+DHA is only 300 mg
- Choosing the cheapest option — budget fish oil is often low-concentration and poorly purified
- Taking too little — one 300 mg capsule daily is below EFSA recommendation
- Wrong storage — omega-3 oxidizes in heat; refrigerate after opening
- Confusing fish oil and krill oil — these are different products with different bioavailability
Frequently asked questions
Can I get enough omega-3 from food alone?
In theory, yes — 2-3 servings of fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, herring) per week covers your needs. In practice, most Estonians don't eat enough fish, making supplementation sensible.
Does omega-3 thin the blood?
High doses (>3000 mg EPA+DHA) may affect blood clotting. If you take blood-thinning medications (warfarin, aspirin), consult your doctor.
Is algae oil a better alternative?
Algae oil is a great alternative for vegans and those concerned about fish stocks. It mainly contains DHA; EPA content is typically lower.
When should I take my omega-3 capsule?
With a fat-containing meal — fatty acids absorb better alongside other fats. Breakfast or dinner works well.
Can children take Aterosan?
Children's omega-3 products have lower doses. Aterosan's adult dose is not appropriate for children without medical guidance.
Estonia-specific notes
Aterosan is a well-known brand in Estonian pharmacies. Price typically ranges €15-25 for 60-90 capsules. As an alternative, MaxFit.ee carries several omega-3 supplements at various concentrations and price points.
Estonian dietary guidelines recommend eating fish at least twice a week, but according to 2019 NIHD nutrition survey data, most of the population falls short of this target.
References
1. Calder, P.C. (2015). Marine omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: Effects, mechanisms and clinical relevance. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, 1851(4), 469-484.
2. Innis, S.M. (2007). Dietary (n-3) fatty acids and brain development. Journal of Nutrition, 137(4), 855-859.
3. Dyerberg, J., Madsen, P., Moller, J.M., Aardestrup, I. & Schmidt, E.B. (2010). Bioavailability of marine n-3 fatty acid formulations. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids, 83(3), 137-141.
4. EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies. (2010). Scientific opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to EPA and DHA. EFSA Journal, 8(10), 1796.
See also:
- Synthetic vs Natural Omega-3: Which Form Is Better?
- DHA + DPA: The Third Omega-3 Most People Overlook
- Forday Omega-3 N60: An Honest Look at Budget Fish Oil
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