Carbohydrates are the persecuted minority of the dieting world. The low-carb, high-protein Atkins diet may not be as popular as it once was, but carbo-bashing is still all the rage. Protein good, bread/potatoes/pasta bad, or so many believe.

Phenolic compounds in olive oil, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-clotting properties, may explain cardiovascular health benefits associated with the so-called Mediterranean Diet, according to a new study in the Nov. 15, 2005, issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

The Mediterranean Diet weight loss program considered to be the healthiest diet in history is now available on-line at AyhansMenuPlans.com. This plan is "healthier and more satisfying than most other diets "says Ayhan, a successful Long Island restaurateur with 6 restaurants. Ayhan also markets a line of healthy Mediterranean salad dressings and other specialty foods.