This text covers the essentials of nutrition at a basic level with little discussion of physiology or biochemistry, emphasizing the practical application of nutrition principles to everyday life. The book's topics are organized in the same way as most introductory courses are organized but all of the information is presented in just eleven chapters and 600 pages making it the briefest textbook available. The text's many unique and interactive features, such as Nutrition Scorecard and The Savvy Diner, reflect its consumer-oriented approach and invite the reader to explore ways in which to make healthful nutrition choices.