If you're perplexed by the so-called "French Paradox," you're not alone. It seems the French subsist on the very foods health experts admonish us to avoid, yet they enjoy leaner bodies and better health. If you're wondering if the French diet can work for you, don't pick up that croissant just yet -- food is only one factor in a larger equation that might not add up for Americans.
Food
Significant differences account for the lower rate of heart disease and obesity in France. It's true that the French choose foods you're warned against, such as full-fat cheeses, butter, rich sauces, pate' and bread, but they eat much smaller portions than Americans do, and end up getting fewer calories. They shun processed foods like chips and soda, snack less, cook their own meals more often, and eat more fruits and vegetables. It's customary for the French to eat slowly, chew well and appreciate food with all five senses during leisurely meals instead of wolfing down fast food on the run.
Attitude
The most important factor in the French Paradox might be attitude about food, according to Dr. Paul Rozin, Ph.D., a professor and specialist in food psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. Americans experience a lot of food-related worry and remorse, and he postulates that this stress might have a negative impact on health. In contrast, the majority of French people consider themselves healthy eaters and regard food as one of the greatest pleasures in life.
Health Care
Health care differences in France and America are a factor in the French Paradox. The French enjoy universal health coverage, while many Americans must pay for health care with little or no help from employers or the government. French doctors focus more on lifestyle management when treating cardiovascular disease, and they also have longer and more frequent visits with their patients. This intense management results in better outcomes for patients, according to a study in the January 2011 issue of "The Journal of Clinical Hypertension."
Other Factors
In addition to diet, other factors -- social, political, lifestyle, work environment and genetics -- probably contribute to better heart health and a longer life in France. In 2003, the average French employee worked 1,459 hours per year, while the average American clocked in for 1,815, or approximately nine more 40-hour work weeks. Over the course of a typical day, the French are more physically active than Americans. They walk more instead of using a car to go everywhere, and they take the stairs instead of the elevator.
References
- "The Journal of Clinical Hypertension"; Physician Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factor Management: Practices in France vs the United States; Richard J. Schuster, M.D., et al.; January 2011,
- Brigham and Women's Hospital; The French Paradox -- Should We Be More Like the French?; Beth Klos, R.D., L.D.N.; Nov. 5, 2007
- "Psychology Today"; Why We're So Fat; Paul Rozin Ph.D.; Nov. 1, 2000
- "The New York Times"; French Diet Secret: If It Feels Good, Eat It; Eric Nagourney; Nov. 21, 1999
- "USA Today"; The French Diet Connection; Nanci Hellmich; Jan. 3, 2005
Member Comments