The mission of the Nutrition and Health Series of books is to provide health profes­ sionals with texts that are considered essential, because each book includes (I) a synthesis of the state of the science, (2) timely, in-depth reviews by the leading researchers in their respective fields, (3) extensive, up-to-date-fully annotated reference list, (4) a detailed index, (5) relevant tables and figures, (6) identification of paradigm shifts and their consequences, (7) virtually no overlap of information between chapters, but targeted interchapter referrals, (8) suggestions of areas for future research, and (9) balanced, data­ driven answers to patients' questions, which are based on the totality of evidence rather than the findings of any single study. The series volumes are not the outcome of a symposium. Instead, each editor has the potential to examine a chosen area with a broad perspective, both in subject matter as well as choice of chapter authors. The international perspective, especially with regard to public health initiatives, is emphasized where appropriate. The editors, whose training are both research and practice oriented, have the opportunity to develop a primary objec­ tive for their books, definite the scope and focus, and invite leading international authori­ ties to be part of their initiative. The authors are encouraged to provide an overview of the field, discuss their own research, and relate their research findings to potential human health consequences.