We have all heard about these books, and for the most part, french women are quite slim.    

After living in France, I can see why they stay so slim.  One thing is for certain is that they take great pride in taking care of their bodies.  It is something that is passed down from generation to generation by Mothers and Grandmothers.  

Something else that you can't miss is that everything in France is tiny; from bistro tables to the chairs to the packaging of food.  

They love yogurt and have entire walls of it on cool shelves in the market.  However, the containers are small, they contain approximately 3 oz.  They also love smoothies, the pre-made containers are also tiny, apx. 3 oz.   You will be hard pressed to find "non-fat or low-fat" yogurt.  Everything is "full fat" in this country.....but in limited amounts.

Something else that I have noticed is that they don't put butter on their bread and they don't munch on it before the meal comes.  It is to be enjoyed with the meal and it is typically one piece. 

They do not snack like Americans.  The grocery stores have a limited variety of potato chips and pretzels, and that is it.  Unlike the smorgasbourg of variety down our "snack aisle" in the U.S. 

They adore chocolate, every sweet contains chocolate.  They have long shelves of every imaginable chocolate bar conceivable.  They are large bars and the french are able to have a square every now and again.  Unlike me, who tried this at home and ate the entire large bar in a day.  Ah ha, I sure did.  

They do sell pre-packaged cookies, which of course I bought.  I was surprised that each cookie is individually wrapped.  Isn't that brilliant?  That way, you know that you can have just one for a treat.....unlike eating an entire sleeve of Oreo cookies while watching reality TV. 

I have watched the french woman at lunchtime at the park.  They are very well-balanced eaters.  They typically will eat a sandwich with a piece of fruit and yogurt.  They drink mostly water or fruit juice.  (It is so frustrating to see them eat so well and then light up a cigarette after lunch.) 

Another reason why they are so slim is they walk everywhere.....and fast!  I tell you, I have a hard time keeping up with them.  It's like speed walking in heels.  Let's not forget all the stairs in the city as well.   There are a few gyms sprouting up and I do see runners in the parks but for the most part, it is just their lifestyle.  

                      **************************************************

I will hopefully take away some of their tips.   They definately have the "everything in moderation" mantra down.