Bon Appetite
Dr. Suzanne Bentz
While vacationing in Paris this summer, I was completely intrigued by what has been called the “French Paradox.” Simply stated, this is the absurd reality that French people seem to enjoy many rich, high calorie foods, but yet they do not have the high rates of Obesity that we have in the United States.
Paris is lined with stylish cafés filled with people enjoying typical French cuisine, which of all things includes French Bread and Pomme Frittes, or as we call them, French Fries! Almost every one of their entrées is covered in rich sauces, and who can pass on the tray of elegant and delectable French pastries. To top it all off, there is the French tradition of ending the meal with an assortment of rich, mellow cheeses. Did I mention the wonderful French wine served with lunch and dinner?
I wanted to cry out how unfair this was, as French people must have a secret “anti-fat weapon,” but then my more reasonable self began to make some observations. First of all, with the exception of one McDonalds, I did not see any other fast food restaurant. There were no Circle Ks or Quick Trips selling gallon sized sodas, big grab bags of chips, and giant sized candy bars. And when the French drink coffee, they sit in a café and enjoy a small cup of espresso or Café Au Lait. I did not see anyone with a Venti-sized Starbucks with caramel and whipped cream!
French people enjoy the “art” of dining. They savor their meals, instead of rushing through them. Portions are much smaller than the super-sized portions that many Americans have come to expect. French people also do not seem to be obsessed with fitness routines or working out; however, they walk more often to their workplace and to other destinations.
I am truly proud to be an American, but I want to encourage my fellow citizens to take a few food “cues” from the French. Simply stated, we should try to slow down, enjoy our meals, and bring portion sizes in reason. We should limit fast food and convenience foods to a minimum, leave the car parked, and put on those Skechers Shape-Ups and go for a walk. With just a few changes we can reverse America’s current trend towards obesity and lead healthier, more enjoyable lives.
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