Seven Reasons the French Are Slimmer

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Seven Reasons the French Are Slimmer

For years, scientists on both sides of the Atlantic have been trying to unravel the "French paradox" - the finding that despite a high-fat diet, the French appear to have a lower rate of heart attacks (as well as a lower rate of obesity) than other Western countries, particularly the United States. While no definite explanations are available, it may have a great deal to do with how the French approach eating:

Their portions are smaller

They eat only at mealtimes, snacking is frowned upon

They eat a wide variety of food

They don't skip meals

They enjoy their food, emphasizing dishes made from quality ingredients that are fresh and locally grown

They stick to internal cues - primarily, no longer feeling hungry - to stop eating

They tend to eat meals with family and friends, making eating a pleasurable experience and not something to “fit into” a schedule or feel guilty about.

Americans, on the other hand, tend to eat more, eat on the run (and eat more low-quality foods), and look to external cues for feeling full (such as when the plate is empty). Consider changing your approach and attitude toward eating and see if it makes a difference in your life