What Is Bio-Marine Plus?
Bio-Marine Plus is a fish oil supplement from Danish pharmaceutical company Pharma Nord, containing the omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Pharma Nord is known for its science-based approach, and their products have been used in multiple clinical studies.
This review helps you understand the Bio-Marine Plus formula, how it compares to other omega-3 products, and whether it suits your needs.
TL;DR
- Bio-Marine Plus contains fish omega-3 (EPA+DHA) in triglyceride form, which absorbs better than the ethyl ester form
- Typical dose: 2 capsules daily, providing roughly 640 mg omega-3 (360 mg EPA + 240 mg DHA)
- EFSA confirms that EPA+DHA support normal heart function from 250 mg daily (EFSA, 2010)
- Price is competitive in the Estonian market, though some concentrated products offer more omega-3 per serving
- Pharma Nord fish oils are monitored for heavy metals and contaminants
Why Omega-3 Matters
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential -- the body cannot produce them and they must come from food or supplements. EPA and DHA are the most biologically active forms.
Scientifically confirmed benefits (EFSA-approved claims):
- Heart health — EPA+DHA support normal heart function (from 250 mg/day)
- Brain function — DHA supports normal brain function (from 250 mg DHA/day)
- Vision — DHA supports normal vision (from 250 mg DHA/day)
- Blood pressure — EPA+DHA help maintain normal blood pressure (from 3 g/day, high doses only under medical supervision)
- Triglycerides — EPA+DHA help maintain normal blood triglyceride levels (from 2 g/day)
Bio-Marine Plus Composition
| Component | Amount per 2 capsules | Daily value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Fish oil | 1000 mg | - |
| of which EPA | 360 mg | - |
| of which DHA | 240 mg | - |
| Total omega-3 | ~640 mg | - |
| Vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol) | 10 mg | 83% |
Form: Triglyceride (TG) — this is the natural fish oil form, which absorbs roughly 70% better than the ethyl ester (EE) form used in cheaper products (Dyerberg et al., 2010).
How to Choose an Omega-3 Product
Key Quality Indicators
1. EPA+DHA amount per serving — this is the most important number. Not the total fish oil amount, but the EPA+DHA sum
2. Form (TG vs EE) — triglycerides (TG) absorb better. Bio-Marine Plus uses TG form
3. Purity — check that the product is tested for heavy metals (mercury, lead) and PCBs
4. Freshness — fish oil oxidises. Check the expiry date and store in a cool place
5. Sustainability — prefer MSC or Friend of the Sea certified products
Bio-Marine Plus vs Other Omega-3 Products
| Product | EPA+DHA per serving | Form | Cost/month (approx.) | Purity cert. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bio-Marine Plus (2 caps) | 600 mg | TG | 12-18 EUR | Yes |
| Typical budget fish oil | 300-400 mg | EE | 5-10 EUR | Varies |
| Concentrated omega-3 | 800-1000 mg | TG/rTG | 15-25 EUR | Often yes |
| Vegan (algae) omega-3 | 400-600 mg | TG | 20-30 EUR | Yes |
Dosage Guide
| Goal | Recommended EPA+DHA | Bio-Marine Plus capsules |
|---|---|---|
| General health | 250-500 mg/day | 1-2 capsules |
| Heart health | 1000 mg/day | 3-4 capsules |
| Inflammation reduction | 2000-3000 mg/day | Under medical guidance |
Important: High omega-3 doses (above 3 g/day) may affect blood clotting. Consult your doctor, especially if using blood thinners.
Common Mistakes When Buying Omega-3
1. Judging by fish oil amount — 1000 mg of fish oil does not mean 1000 mg of omega-3. Check EPA+DHA separately
2. Choosing the cheapest option without checking the label — cheap fish oils often contain only 300 mg EPA+DHA per 1000 mg of fish oil
3. Improper storage — fish oil should be stored cool and dark. Heat accelerates oxidation
4. Taking on an empty stomach — omega-3 absorbs better with a fat-containing meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bio-Marine Plus suitable during pregnancy?
Omega-3 is important during pregnancy for brain and eye development. However, pregnant women should consult their doctor before taking any supplement.
Do fish oil capsules smell?
Quality fish oil capsules should not smell or cause fishy burps. If they do, the oil may be oxidised -- discard them.
Can vegans get omega-3 without fish oil?
Yes. Algae-based omega-3 products contain EPA and DHA without fish. They are typically more expensive but suitable for vegans and people with fish allergy.
Does omega-3 help with joint pain?
Some studies suggest that high-dose omega-3 (2-3 g EPA+DHA) may reduce joint inflammation. This dose requires medical supervision.
How long before omega-3 effects appear?
Omega-3 accumulates in cells gradually. Most studies use 8-12 week periods to evaluate results.
Estonia-Specific Notes
Estonia's population consumes less fish than the European average, making omega-3 supplements particularly relevant. Bio-Marine Plus is widely available in Estonian pharmacies and health food stores. MaxFit offers multiple omega-3 products, including concentrated versions and vegan alternatives.
References
1. EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (2010). Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to EPA, DHA. EFSA Journal, 8(10), 1796.
2. 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.
Browse MaxFit omega-3 and fish oil products.
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