Jul 13, 2008 2:38 pm US/Eastern
Is The French Paradox The Key To Longer Life?
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
The longest living human being whose
age could be confirmed by reliable records and scientists credited her survival
to what she ate. French citizen Jeanne Calment died on August 4, 1997, at the
age of 122. Calment has been quoted as saying on her death bed, "I grabbed
pleasure where I could."
The key to longer life may be
"the French paradox" - that despite diets high in saturated fat, the
people of France
tend to live longer and have one of the lowest rates of coronary and cardiovascular
disease in the industrialized world. In honor of this Monday's Bastille Day
(French Independence Day), here are some eating patterns of the French you may
want to adopt:
Red wine. Studies suggest that one
of the reasons people in France
have less heart disease may be their regular consumption of red wine.
Scientists now believe that natural chemical compounds in red wine called
biologically active flavonoids may confer important health benefits to the
heart and blood vessels. Red grapes are one of the richest known sources of
biologically active flavonoids
Less is more when it comes to rich
foods; eat only the good stuff. The French eat small portions of richer,
tastier food in a size right for their individual need. The French are known
for and love cheese, yet they don't consume large quantities. A portion of
cheese is equal to one ounce. French don't waste their calories on lower
quality foods.
Lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Studies show that French consumption of fruits and vegetables is almost double
that of Americans. These foods provide fiber, folate (a B vitamin),
antioxidants and phytochemicals that boost heart health and help protect
against cancer.
The French eat slowly. Meals in France
traditionally are regarded as experiences to be savored - smug
"time-outs". Even if the French don't have a lot of time, they will
sit down and have a two- or three-course meal as food is seen as a life
pleasure, and it's meant to be enjoyed. No eating food from the drive-through
window in the car. And the French must know that it takes at least 20 minutes
for your brain to realize there is food in your stomach and turn off the hunger
mechanism.
The French MOVE! The French don't
need to don lycra bike shorts or join a gym - exercise is a way of life. People
in France
walk and bike everywhere!
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