How can Parisians eat bread, cheese, butter, dessert… drink wine… and still stay relatively fit?
This is what many call the French Paradox—but the reality is very different from what most people think.
In this video, I share what I’ve learned after more than 35 years living in Paris, and eating out two to three times a week, reviewing restaurants across the city.
You’ll discover the real habits behind the Parisian lifestyle—from structured meals and quality food, to slower eating and daily movement.
And the good news is: you don’t need to live in Paris to apply these principles.
I always reply to each and every comment, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts on this subject, or ask me anything about Paris and the French way of life.
If you want to experience Paris like a local, make sure to subscribe to Paris Top Tips.
24 Comments
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Eating real food, not the industrial sugar crap, is probably what makes a difference. I am an avid veg grower, and I think it benefits my health a lot.
I am of an older generation where we bought fresh and cooked at home. We have a horrid culture in the U.K. where people eat at their desk….and I’ve even heard of someone eating cake at breakfast time. Also now we have many traditional butchers closing shop. In schools children are not taught to cook; they wouldn’t even be able to cook an omelette. Sad. 😢😢
Thank you for your videos; love them all.
I also find that French cuisine has a lot less sugar in it. Even the desserts, while sweet, don’t overwhelm with sugar.
I completly agree, portion sizes and movement makes the big difference.
I'm on a weight loss journey(not going too well) but the 5 days I went to Paris last month made a 1kg difference over a period of 3 weeks between my weigh-ins… I did end up with a painfull foot, though, so even though I'd love to implement more general walking, I have to restrict myself, and I'm npt sure I'm always good enough to restrict my diet, as well as a French testairant, because I love food, and can't always help but grab a 2nd serving… just because. Next weigh in is monday, so we'll see how bad I f'ed it. Wish I could afford more trips to Paris, then maybe I'd loose my weight in 'no time'. Nice video.
The French paradox: breakfast, lunch, dinner – that's it! Food quality – nothing processed, portion control, movement. Take your time and enjoy the meal.
What I observed while studying in Italy is that the Italians don't drink to eat – for me (American) we would party with alcohol then order pizza or eat chips – munchies. The Italians eat to drink. Wine is a part of the meal taken in small sips to enhance the food. Also, after the meal we did the passeggiata – promenade in France. This was a great post and I'm super excited to get back to France!!!
After watching your channel, and others, there is a clear distinction how food is savored. But a big indicator to me is drinking water vs soda, and the non-processed food.
My 🇫🇷 MIL who lived in Paris told me a portion of meat should be no larger than the palm of the hand. She walked everywhere even in her 70s & cultivated relationships with the shopkeepers whose shops she frequented to get their recommendations as to what was good that day.
I never saw her snack & when she drank red wine, she added water.
Hyped.
Distinguished by all the episodes you film, thank you very much for your dedication and interaction, and I congratulate your wife on your high and sophisticated taste.
And I ask you about wine, what is the percentage of alcohol in it, and why do you drink it with meals?
Didn't you try red or green tea after meals?
I love your videos, they have been very helpful. However, I do not love looking up your nostrils every time you take a bite. I am sorry to tell you this. You can get your message across without the nostrils. Said with much love…
Portions are definitely smaller. People eat, not gorge
We Americans have to eat a bit differently. Our groceries sell a lot of GMO produce that therefore have pesticides that alter metabolism. A lot of our restaurants serve poor quality food all sourced from the same supplier. Yes, eating smaller portions helps. We are also careful with fructose-laden juices, breads, pasta, and carbs in general. We have to do this to counter our available options. I look forward to being in Paris later this month to eat real food!
In the US, the question after a meal is “Are you full?” rather than “Have you had enough to eat?” This is a bad idea. We also tend not to realize that portions should get smaller as you age. I started reducing portion sizes 15 years ago, and now, at 68, I weigh what I did at 22: 185 cm and 73 kilos, down from 88. And I still eat everything I want, just less. And the thought of eating until I am full never enters my mind.
There is no paradox, only misconception. Parisians are like the rest of us, they do get fat and traditional French food is greasy and bad for health.
prace que les francais marchent tout les jours ?
Great post. I’ve had the experience and enjoy living this way.
Thank you, and greatly appreciated !
You eat the way my mother taught us. I am 178 cm tall and weight 78 kg. At 79 years old, I am in excellent shape for my frame and age. Obviously I will fit right in when I get to Paris, probably in 2027 or 2028. 😁
Parfait. 💙🤍♥️
I moved to France 2 years ago and gained 25 pounds!
& yet mediaeval people of the Languedoc region of France ate cassoulet…
Love your videos. 100% authentic & very enjoyable.
Don't stop!
But people still smoke a lot in
Paris .