photo credit: david.nikonvscanon

Did you know that in France, the incidence of obesity among adults is nearly one third that of the current U.S. percentages? Although there are some dietary differences, the diets of U.S. and French adults are more similar than you might expect. Some researchers believe the difference lies in two crucial areas – differences in the serving portions and the duration of meals in these two countries.

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One study found that French servings were, on average, 25% smaller than North American portions. This finding was consistent in both restaurants and in cookbooks. And numerous recent studies have indicated – unsurprisingly – that when we’re served less food, we eat less.

Additionally, French adults eat at a more leisurely pace, taking almost twice the time to eat a meal compared to Americans. There is evidence to suggest that eating a meal over a longer period of time can lead to a sense of being full and satisfied with smaller portions.

So, use common sense when it comes to doling out your portions. And take your time while eating. These factors could make a big difference in your creating a healthier lifestyle.
Studies by Cornell University, Penn State University and the University of Pennsylvania

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University predict that if U.S. adults continue to gain weight at the current pace, a shocking number of us will be overweight within the next eight years.

According to analyses of recent trends, nearly 75% of U.S. adults are projected to become overweight, and over half of those will be classified as obese. Further, the study predicts that almost a quarter of children and adolescents will be overweight or obese.

Researchers fear that obesity could soon become the leading preventable cause of death, if nothing is done to address this national health crisis very soon.

Source: Epidemiologic Reviews, 2007