festivore

French cuisine is renowned for rich meats in succulent sauces, fatty cheeses, chocolates and fine wines. Yet, French people have one third the obesity level of American women. How can we explain this “French Paradox?”

Some of the secrets of staying slim are found in Mireille Guiliano’s wonderful little book, “French Women Don’t Get Fat.” The author, who is CEO of the champagne vintner Veuve Cliquot, came to the U.S. as an exchange student, and returned to France 20 pounds (9 kg) heavier. She returned to France depressed about her weight and actually continued to gain more weight the first year she was back. Finally, she sought the help of a family doctor, who helped reconnect with her natural self using the traditional French methods.

French culinary and lifestyle traditions were perfected over many centuries, with a focus on quality and pleasure in food and in life. Because of its ancient origins, this wisdom is deeply rooted in principles of human health, designed for survival in a primitive world. Some of the key points from the ancient French way are:

→ Eat a variety of fresh local foods, in season for maximum taste
→ The first few bites are the most delicious, so portion sizes should be small
→ Use all of your senses to enjoy the food (and the wine) – eat slowly to fully experience the pleasure
→ Don’t give up the special pleasures – fine red wine and cheese, good bread, real chocolate – a but enjoy them in moderation
→ And beyond the food itself, follow a few simple guidelines:
o Walk a lot
o Drink lots of water
o Respect rituals and traditions
o Practice self-awareness (“do my clothes still fit me well?”), and
o Compensate when you deviate from the natural way (after a day of overindulgence, eat less and walk more to achieve a balance).