A number of important changes in the field of food and nutrition have occurred since the first edition of this book was published. Recent research has pointed to the importance of several new dietary links in cardiovascular disease, notably folic acid; other factors such as phyto-oestrogens and bioflavonoids are beginning to emerge, not only as protective factors in cardiovascular disease, but also in cancer. The incidence of over-weight and obesity continues to increase, making advice on weight control even more important for people of all ages including children and adolescents. Each chapter has been updated to include these and a number of other changes.

What has not changed since the first edition is the need for dietary advice and the opportunity for pharmacists to provide it, as individuals become increasingly interested in diet as a means of maintaining and improving their health.