French Women Don’t Get Fat

Posted on February 22, 2011

SPICE: This is what I do to myself every February. I say, “Hey, It’s only 5 months until bathing suit season again! It’s time to get serious!” Then I begin anew on a diet and exercise regimen while visions of a tanned lithe body swirl in my head.

I’d love to be able to say that I want to live a healthier lifestyle, but in all honesty, it’s because I already own a swimsuit that covers as much skin as a normal person can get away with.

But here is what I want to wear!

OoLaLa!

If I can’t fit into that bathing suit this year, then there is a strong possibility that I am destined to be known as the Shirt-and- Shorts- In-The-Pool-Mom. And that, my dear, is not going to happen!

Why can’t I be more European in my thinking? You know what I mean. European men and women seem to have a healthier approach to weight, fitness and lifestyle. It’s built into them, day to day. Not the way I do it; panicky and sporadic.

Here is how Mireille Guiliano lives. (Author of the No. 1 best-seller French Women Don’t Get Fat)
http://newyork.grubstreet.com/2008/02/why_mireille_guiliano_doesnt_g_1.html

SUGAR: Oh please! Must you remind me that swimsuit season is upon us?!?!

I prefer to have my head in the sand, than my body in my favorite swimsuit design.

But now that I think about it, you are right. The facts are the facts and winter will be ending soon. It is time to consider the newest approach to spring…or maybe the newest approach isn’t so new…the French have it down pat…moderation. And what is moderation? It is code word for portion control. Even without the exercise, if you have portion control you can still make it into your choice swim suit.

Usually when I am about to start the next diet crazed cycle I go all out that weekend, getting in everything I think I will never touch again. But with your suggested approach, I will never have to say no to thin mint cookies. I will just have to say “two only, please”

So when do we start?

SPICE: Well, now I suppose. Though, you may recall, I prefer to begin things on Mondays…

And you know, I am so inspired by her and the way that she eats. It sensible, effortless and oh so chic! Her meals include fresh ingredients and, did you notice, fruit. Every meal seemed to have a piece of fruit. Genius! Oh, and my favorite part of all? She still had a sweet now and then. But instead of 5 cookies…she ate just one. Just one! Brilliant! It’s the French way! However, we must review cookie portion control and do it the French way, people.

French cookie size…