The French Paradox: Top Five Reason the French Can Eat the Richest Food in the World

So have you ever wondered why other cultures, namely the French, can eat such rich foods and not suffer with the same coronary diseases that we seem to be afflicted with here in the U.S.? Here are the top 5 reasons they get away with it and we don't.

Size Matters. It has been grossly overestimated how much of an impact dietary fat has on cardiovascular disease. The truth is that fat is not bad and in fact how much of what you eat matters more. Researchers in Paris (the CNRS) and at the University of Pennsylvania have found that the average serving size of foods in Paris are 25 percent smaller than found here in America. In effect although the food is richer in fat, the French are consuming a lot less in calories over time.

Mindful Eating. Eating lunch in France and other European countries is typically a two hour affair. Unlike the shameful experience we call lunch here (a half hour swallowing fest), the French savor their food; they chew their foods thoroughly and allow time for proper digestion. There is no eating while walking and mindless snacking is just not a part of the culture.

Snobbery and Vanity. Don't misunderstand me, I am not saying here that the French are snobs, but vanity when it comes to food has served them well. The French along with other Europeans are in love with real and lovingly prepared foods. There is no love affair with overly processed, invented foods going on in that part of the world.

Transporation. The French do a lot of walking and cycling and for good reason...have you been to Paris lately, the traffic there is crazy!

Choice of Beverage. The French don't seem to drink carbonated beverages, rather they consume water after their meals or red wine. Now as we all know red wine is rich in phenol compounds, particularly flavonoids that are beneficial for heart health.