How important is Fish oil? And what is the appropriate dose for me?

Extremely important... 2-5 grams depending on current condition and goals.

Fish oil is one of the most beneficial supplements anyone can take. It has innumerable benefits, much too many to name here. A few of these benefits include improving heart health, joint health, triglyceride levels, and aiding in fat loss. In fact, a few studies have demonstrated simply supplementing with fish oil alone can aid in fat loss, even if diet and exercise are unchanged (but this is no excuse for not eating healthy and exercising)!

Dosage recommendations vary depending on the individual and who you talk to. However, according to the FDA, no more than 3 grams of fish oil per day has been classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). This basically means that healthy individuals can ingest up to 3 grams daily without expecting any negative side effects (realize that omega 3's can come from your diet as well). The relative dosage of EPA and DHA, which make up fish oil, varies depending on who you talk to and if you are male or femaie (the 1-3 gram recommendation is total EPA and DHA). Although fish oil is probably about as safe as they come, you should still consult your doctor first before getting on any kind of supplementation.