At first glance, the way people in France eat appears to border on the unhealthy when compared to the low-fat focused culture of America. Nothing could be further than the truth, however, because the French rate of obesity is a sparse 11 percent, according to "USA Today." In contrast, nearly a third of Americans qualify as obese, setting them up for myriad health problems such as cancer, heart disease and adult onset diabetes. Although the French diet appears less lavish than that of Americans, it's actually quite gourmet. Imagine the luxuries of wine, fresh produce and cheese and losing weight.
Step 1
Replace foods in your house that are high in sugar, fat and highly processed with fruits, vegetables, fresh meats and whole-grain baked goods. Stick to foods that are in season, such as apples in the late summer and fall, and rely on seasoning with fresh herbs and spices instead of salt, ketchup and mayonnaise. According to "USA Today," the French indeed do eat more red meat, butter and cheese than the average American, but they don't eat processed foods. The French also don't have the high rates of heart disease, cancer and diabetes that Americans do.
Step 2
Eat breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks between each meal. The French eat their meals slowly, unlike many Americans who rush to consume their food. Eating slowly makes you eat less overall and helps aid digestion. Eat good food and savor it, taking small bites and enjoying the flavor. Don't eat alone if you can help it, either. The French use their mealtimes as a time to connect with others rather than a goal to finish the food and clean the dishes.
Step 3
Shop more than once a week for your fresh meats and produce so that you get them at the height of their flavor. The French also do more food preparation than Americans do, but this doesn't mean they create complicated menus that take hours to cook. Most French meals consist of few ingredients and are generally easy to prepare, like simple soups and salads.
Step 4
Walk---every day---as much as possible. The French don't rely on gyms for exercise; they enjoy walking and do it far more than most Americans. Instead of sitting and watching television, the French are active, even when cooking. Many walk to work or to get groceries and carry them home. It's exercise with a purpose, and you don't have to spend money for a gym membership to lose weight.
Step 5
Make and eat yogurt. It's not as hard as you might think to make your own yogurt and when you taste homemade yogurt, you'll never buy the processed store version again. You don't need a machine, although it does make it a little easier, and you can add fresh fruits to make your own signature versions. Try using goat milk and adding a touch of honey or vanilla, and enjoy yogurt the way the French do.
Member Comments