French Diet Secrets That Will Change Your Life

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I hope you enjoyed today's video. What has your experience been with diet culture? Have you tried the principles in Lessons from Madame Chic? I'm looking forward to reading your comments on this topic. Thank you for watching, as always! Love, Jennifer

[@KJB0001]

the French Paradox comes down to stearic acid (butter) If one uses the term "paradox" , it proves that the topic is not FULLY understood So alas, know that food scientists have solved the 'Paradox' and the secret ingredient for staying slim in France is TONS OF BUTTER Brad Marshall's work is a fun source of stearic acid info

[@jenniferconrad6987]

Your books helped me realize how much snacking I was doing! Gosh. I have stopped that now and if I really want something will make a delicious cup of coffee or tea. Thanks for your lovely books and videos!

[@nmernst]

I had the good fortune to travel to France and visit both Paris and Bordeaux. The quality of the food is most definitely a factor. I very much enjoy walking, and back in high school I clocked at least 5 miles a day. Can't do that as often now unfortunately but I do it as often as possible. Thanks for sharing 😊.

[@mimiglumac1590]

Good morning dear Jennifer! I agree 100% with all your observations and suggestions in this video. I am raised in the United States by European parents and practice every habit you describe. I live in San Francisco, which, like much of Europe, was also set up as a walking city so I am very fortunate. I also prepare my own food, and sit at a lovely table setting each meal. No takeout, no delivery, no snacking. And I treat myself to dark chocolate every evening with no guilt! Thank you for continuing with these wonderful videos. I am a big fan and have read all of your books multiple times! Cordialement, Mimi

[@GOTKiDZ]

I thought you were going to post the link to the Smart scale, but I don’t see it anymore. Am I just missing it?

[@gailtester8749]

I was raised in Southern California (69 now). My classy mother had dinner on the table at 6 PM every single night. No tv! She used pretty place mats, cloth napkins, prepared beautiful meals. It was always my job to make the tossed green salad in individual wooden bowls. When I had children of my own, I continued that ritual. Now I am widowed and living alone. My table sits next to a picture window and I have bird feeders outside, so the birds are now my dinner companions, still the nicely set table, cloth napkin, I always light a candle. It is a very special time that I hold dear and I think of my mother, my young children my husband and all of our beautiful shared meals. Grateful!

[@fatmaahmed750]

❤❤❤❤

[@riecaswell252]

I love this! I am an older single mom to my young son and we always light a candle and pray at dinner.

[@lindacox9477]

Such a beautiful idea! We all should be more intentional. It’s important for those core memories that our children will have forever.

[@robotlife2025]

❤

[@erikaa.3030]

That sounds like such a wonderfully luxurious life! Bless you!

[@sandratracy1378]

I've tried so many diets that just didn't work. All of my Italian relatives live to be in their 90's so I decided to change my diet back to my Italian heritage. I've stopped eating processed American food, grow my own food and make home cooked dinners from old family recipes. This has worked for me , I've lost thirty pounds and have had the best health results from the doctor. Thank you for your wonderful videos. I really enjoy them.

[@ralugator]

How inspiring. There are entire shelves of groceries in American stores that I will never buy from. I worry about the kids who have access to so many UPFs. I grew up in Europe and like to cook from scratch as much as I can. I also grow a lot of veggies myself.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

This is so powerful. There is so much wisdom in that way of life!

[@albar.7307]

Thank you for this wonderful video.

[@RCGWho]

Do you eat bread and pasta?

[@sandratracy1378]

@@RCGWho Yes. I make homemade sour dough and eat pasta at least once a week. I think the key is not to over eat and to move a lot. I've learned through the years that cooking is fun and enjoyable and not a chore.

[@lv4366]

I never realized it, but my family never snacked. We had breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If we were very hungry, we had a piece of fresh fruit. During dinner, my mother set the table, lit candles, and played music. We enjoyed conversation, and occasionally we would have dessert, which was always a treat. My mother also took advantage of teaching us manners. I am forever grateful.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

What a beautiful experience!

[@redwarrior2424]

What a special mother! And teaching manners. I am impressed. I'll bet her children's spouses were too.

[@dancingrl7350]

That sounds delightful! You are very fortunate.

[@johannabutler5575]

I lived like that my whole life: I never snacked. Growing up with 3 meals a day and never anything in between. I never changed that. I’ve been the same slim size my whole life. I never wanted it different.

[@goingcagey5991]

I grew up in poverty with 6 siblings and our parents. Before winter set in, our dad would buy a 50 lb bag of potatoes and 20 lbs of macaroni. It was up to our mom to use those ingredients to make nutritious, filling meals throughout the winter. She would occasionally be given government cheese or peanut butter, and a local dairy farmer would give some of his skimmed milk to the first needy family who showed up at his farm. The rare snacks we had were popcorn popped in bacon grease, and toast. My husband introduced me to hard-core snacking as he learned from his family. It was shocking to me, though I soon became acclimated and steadily gained weight over the 60 years we have been married. I never had any difficulty losing weight but could never keep it off.

[@schoolgirl4suzuki]

1. Take pleasure in your food 2. Enough is enough (no overeating, no seconds) 3. No snacking 4. Enjoy treats (dessert) 5. Fellowship with meals (sitting down to nicely set table with others) 6. Active lifestyle

[@marygomez9240]

Thank you for the summary! ❤

[@jackdeniston6150]

Smoke

[@leanonjesus11]

Thanks for the summary! I was sewing as I listened, so this helped that I didn’t have to stop and take notes ☺️

[@annamesa5138]

I live in Estonia (Northen Europe). Estonians love natural local food: porrige with berries for breakfast, cabbage soup for lunch, meat with vegetables for dinner, cottage cheese with ruburb for dessert... So every country diet can be healthy and delicious if you make a right choice🤗

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I totally agree! And I have been wanting to find a cabbage soup recipe. It sounds so healing!

[@halcyondays8945]

Sounds wonderful! I love simple healthy food like that.

[@vegasgirl3538]

Cabbage is awesome for health and weight maintenance.

[@laurenbruns4654]

@@TheDailyConnoisseur 1 head of cabbage 1 onion 3 stocks of celery 2 can of stewed tomatoes 1 cup of water Seasonings : Cajun,salt ,pepper and onion powder I haven’t tried it yet and it’s supposed to be part of a cabbage soup diet but it doesn’t look like diet soup to me. Maybe similar to the French Leek Soup

[@Scowlingoverlord]

Their food is more satisfying due to the quality of ingredients, and had no added chemicals, dyes, or preservatives.

[@21972012145525]

Preservatives are needed in foods that won't be consumed in the short term and allows for shelf stable items. Not the demon and necessary. Who wants mold and bacteria?

[@valerieoliva9301]

Yes, if I don't make my own bread, I only buy it from a place called Breadsmith. This is a fairly recent place I discovered, but they bake their bread daily. No preservatives, nothing of the sort. It is homemade bread. Since I started doing this, I have noticed my family and I are satisfied with less. Same thing with making my own pizza dough. We eat about 1 1/2 pizzas with my family of 4, when we buy it, but when I make it from scratch, we eat 1 pizza, minus 1 slice and I love adding a kale salad on the side. It is more satisfying and both of my daughters prefer it to buying.

[@heather5926]

True. They eat real food. Way less pesticides and GMOs there. They probably also walk a lot more than we do.

[@darien8080]

⁠@@heather5926I think that’s a very stereotypical comment. With globalisation these days there’s no way French people eat much differently from the rest of the world. Certainly they would have as much GM foods as every one else, GM foods have been around for many, many years contrary to what many people believe. Pesticides are also used worldwide & France would not be excluded. Additionally every 4 minutes someone in France has a heart episode eg heart attack, stroke. France is not an example of healthy eating or life style.

[@anadelwrites2144]

⁠@@darien8080the number of pesticides used in Europe is a fraction of that of the US. Many in common use in the States are illegal in Europe (due to them being carcinogenic) and the level of additives in food is vastly different! A good example is the difference in ingredients on foods available in both countries. Just google ingredients in European Heinz Ketchup or Macdonalds fries compared to the US and you’ll see a huge difference. High Fructose Corn Syrup isn’t used in Europe. GM foods have to be strictly labelled and GMO production has been banned in France since 2008! Unfortunately, the U.K. is heading towards US levels of additives though we are still far better off than Americans in that respect, but nowhere near as good as the rest of Europe. I’m sorry to burst your bubble, but food in Europe and France as the rest of the Mediterranean countries still have much healthier diets than the U.K. and United States.

[@sallieredman7349]

I think we binge because our bodies are starving for real food. Better nutrition keeps you more satiated so you don’t long for the snacks and treats. I remember a nutritionist telling me “ you can have your cake and candy but have real food first.” She was right. When I ate protein and veg, I didn’t want the other.

[@courtney3194]

This is so true!! Whole foods, especially fats and proteins, satisfy like no amount of junk foods can!

[@delnacarruthers7277]

Good comment.....sugar addiction in America is a real threat to our wellbeing. Physically and mentally.

[@jeanettehigginbotham]

@@sallieredman7349 I agree 100%. When I fues my body with real food, eat enough protein, and stay busy ... I do not crave snacks.

[@fionah3433]

Hyper-processed food is very addictive to the brain, which is why snacking takes on a life of it's own. Ged rid of those foods and the problem goes away. It's actually a diagnosed disease now. For more info, look into Bright Line Eating and Dr. Susan Pierce Thompson's work. I have noticed that when my husband and I go out to a really nice restaurant a couple of times a year, it is much more in the French style than other types of restaurants...even if it's not traditionally French food. The portions are much smaller but very high quality, and I love that. The food is well prepared with unique and original recipes/combinations. The meal isn't rushed, it becomes a real experience. Fat satisfies...rich, creamy sauces satisfy our need for mouth feel and just plain deliciousness! I hate the way we have made food an enemy in our society. Very neurotic. It should nourish both body and soul, then we can move on to other things in life.

[@bea.titite]

Hello, I'm french and your video is very interesting although things in France change. Unfortunatly young People don't eat very well. We have for habits to cook from scratch, eat together around a table without screen at regular hours. But, People change and à lot of french People begin to "s'americaniser"😂 and we begin to see overweight children and more and more obèse persons. It's very sad!!!! As for me and my family, we fight for a traditional way of life in the pure french tradition. Thank your for love of France.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I was hoping this wouldn't be the case. I think preserving these traditions are more important than ever now!

[@lauren8627]

Less smoking leads to increased obesity too. 😂

[@isabel313258]

I Love French food ate lake a Queen in Paris and didn’t gain a pound but we did walk everywhere

[@almaburns6562]

​@@TheDailyConnoisseur)

[@Susie-se4mv]

@@isabel313258that’s the key, all that walking!

[@airstreamer]

Bread and pasta in America is totally different than in Europe.They also walk a lot more as opposed to we drive everywhere. Loved your point about sitting down and fellowshipping together over a meal. - Michelle

[@MorganHyde-ie5ru]

People act like you're really weird if you walk in the states! It's so odd. I wish people walked more here. Granted, a lot of places in the states are horrible places to walk, with wide roads, no sidewalks, ugly streets with retail stores- we need cities and towns that are designed better. I walk and bike everywhere, but I live in a beautiful town for walking. We need to demand that our city planners replace old infrastructure with prettier, safer spaces! With more trees and plants for pity's sake!

[@laurenbruns4654]

@@MorganHyde-ie5ruit depends on where you live

[@Chef-w8t]

@@MorganHyde-ie5ru the structure of cities in America and in Europe is different you cannot go somewhere by walking if you want come home today :D

[@stuck-in-the-80s-e5h]

Bread in the USA is absolutely disgusting and makes me feel sick

[@Ashleyloveslululemon]

Sitting here watching this in the dark without power. We were just hit by hurricane helene and have lost so much, like many others around us. Grateful for your lovely videos to take me away from the darkness that surrounds. Thank you ❤️

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

We are praying for you and everyone in the region affected by Helene. Much love ♥️

[@monah5532]

I hope you will ok soon. I am so sorry you had to go through this horrible experience

[@janetjaken1389]

We just got power back yesterday in SC. Praying for you 🙏

[@lindal.8861]

God bless you. I lost almost everything in Katrina. I moved away and am much happier with my new life. God is good.

[@marianlinden9736]

God bless you and your family and neighbors.

[@DansonforJoy]

I LOVE when you revisit original Madame Chic topics! 🥰 Always good refreshers, and even more meaningful with further life experience. 👌

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you!

[@raeleenphillips2021]

And after she talks about them I pull them out yet once again and find myself re-reading them for the umpteenth time! Not complaining:). Patiently waiting for the new book. Any timeline for its release???

[@KJB0001]

@@TheDailyConnoisseur the French Paradox comes down to stearic acid (butter) If one uses the term "paradox" , it proves that the topic is not FULLY understood So alas, know that food scientists have solved the 'Paradox' and the secret ingredient for staying slim in France is TONS OF BUTTER Brad Marshall's work is a fun source of stearic acid info

[@valerieoliva9301]

I lived with my grandma for just short of a year in my teens. My parents were very lenient, hands off, let the kids learn from life type.. I completely and totally disagree with this approach, but that's another story. My grandma, was the structured and proper one. Like the french, though she was English, she did not snack. She had 3 well balanced meals, and I was allowed 1 after school snack, which was almost always 2 homemade cookies and some milk. And absolutely no eating after dinner. I actually have a similar story about trying to find something to nibble on. I couldn't sleep, and though I wasn't hungry, I wanted something sweet. I got up and attempted to sneak down the hall to the kitchen to get a couple more of those cookies, and just as I was about to reach for them, there was my grandma in her dressing gown. She asked if everything was alright. Yes, just getting some water... Rats! I never could get away with it. 😅 The results were absolutely amazing in my mind. I was never hungry. Meal time came, and I could eat, but I was never famished. I was never fat but I wasn't fit either. Because there was nothing else to do in her small town, I walked a lot, roller bladed, played basketball, volunteered at the senior center, was at church, and read and studied. This resulted in my body looking the best it had ever been. Ultimately, it lead to a much happier and healthier life. I miss her dearly and have her to thank for such a blessing of an experience.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

That's eerie. Your experience mirrors mine exactly with Mme Chic! 😅

[@valerieoliva9301]

@@TheDailyConnoisseur I know! When I read that in your book, I had serious deja vu. It makes me think of my grandma, so that story is very dear to my heart.

[@Motherhubbard170]

children are being destroyed by what this 'culture 'is teaching them, leaving children to find their way is child neglect. Train up a child in the way they should go and when they are old they will not depart from it.

[@wackthegood8884]

I love your story!

[@UneAnglaise-p3x]

I am British living near Paris with my French husband. This has been exactly my experience. I've been here 7 years now and at first it was a real culture shock, not in a negative way, just very different from what I was used to. I say that the British eat to live, whereas the French live to eat. The French LOVE their food. They love to eat it and equally love to talk about it lol. I found the emphasis is on the quality of the food. Good quality bread bought fresh from the boulangerie each day. Not the sliced rubbish I was used to from the supermarket back home. Quality meat from the local butcher or market, artisan cheeses from the fromagerie or local market, fruit and vegetables from the local market. They really support local producers. They also take pleasure in little treats. Having 1 square of quality chocolate after a meal with a coffee, not an entire chocolate bar. That was such an awakening for me. To savour and enjoy the small things. Less is certainly more. Now I can tell the difference immediately between quality and cheap food and I'm enjoying this way of life and would never change it now. Yes it is more expensive to buy quality food and I have a limited budget, but I prefer to have less food in my refrigerator of good quality, than a cupboard full of cheap food, snacks and drinks.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Love reading about your experience!

[@julialucas1482]

Very true. I learned that less is more a few years back. I now bake for one, so that I don't have to buy a tart for $5.00 or a donut for $4.00. The fact that humans can go so long without food, means that our species does not do well with overeating and there are adverse consequences for doing so.

[@UneAnglaise-p3x]

@@julialucas1482 That's great ☺️

[@alcogito8287]

For those of us who are single, it doesn't take a lot of food to fill us up. It may as well be the best quality.

[@TheNutmegStitcher]

I finally gave up all dieting (took 3 years to kill the mental looping tape of shoulds and shouldn'ts). Now I just fast, eat mostly real food, not too much, sleep, repeat. I added 3 days of strength training (at home, 30 minutes and done), and walking. That's about it. I never weigh myself. I'm fairly slim now with no angst. No striving. No worrying. No food is forbidden, so nothing has a hold on me. I pass up the doughnuts, ice cream, and junk foods most of the time now because I can always have it later if I really still want it. I've trained myself to think of sweets as something to have after a real meal, not as a snack. Now it seems weird to consider having a cookie during the day because cookies are dessert. Or something to have as just a treat with a cup of tea now and then instead of bingeing on a box. Freedom. ❤ It took time, it was not smooth, and I'm still not perfect because I don't need to be.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I love this! Freedom!

[@kalliapel08]

This is so helpful❤

[@indianne9781]

Love this! ❤️

[@jnax2019]

Self-discipline is the only true and real freedom ❤

[@dawnwilliams4288]

I travel to France regularly, and have to say that younger French people are sadly going down the fast food route. I see more overweight people these days queuing up for a McDonalds. So life there is changing.

[@Ready4Raw]

I blame the internet.

[@kathleenmathews6096]

I grew up in the Midwest (I’m a boomer) and this was our way of life. When home, all 3 meals were at the table. Little to no snacking. We got up from the table and washed dishes. Lots of getting out to be with friends, we walked to and from school if the weather was nice, PE 3 times a week. I did carhop at an A&W so all that walking and carrying those heavy glass root beer mugs kept me in shape. Very few classmates were overweight. I’ve gained a few pounds with meno-pudge and have found that intermittent fasting has helped.

[@wendylou3612]

63 and slim - all due to my mother. Never allowed snacks, Mum always cooked from scratch, parents grew almost all the veg and fruit and kept bees. Mum made a pudding every day. We were a family of 7 so portions were adequate. We were allowed one sweet each after we'd washed and dried up. We made our own school lunches of sandwiches and a mini fruit pie (often swapped for crisps or chocolate). We were so lucky!

[@lucindahansen3332]

I loved hearing you tell these stories again. After recently returning home from Italy I could relate to the similar cultural emphasis on meal times, stopping to eat well. Mindfulness around what you are eating, enjoying the company and conversation. Setting a nice table. This is what gives us a quality life. Enjoying the little things.

[@NessaBixler]

Many European families that come here for university have a habit of walking after dinner as a family, and I believe there are multiple studies showing that taking a walk after a meal increases the bodies ability to use insulin more efficiently and also a lower and healthy BMI.

[@aimeepaul9972]

This made me feel so good this morning. I sat down to watch your video with a cup of black coffee and a slice of left over apple pie from dinner last night. I love that this a Madame Chic approved breakfast! 😂

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Madame Chic approved!

[@katherinerichardson1767]

I have been a subscriber for several years now so I try to watch each and every one you present. BUT my first thought when I saw the title of this episode was, "I don't want to hear about ANOTHER diet--French or otherwise." Now I am so glad I took the time to listen. Like so many of my friends, we have gone on diets and have felt deprived or just plain hungry. Now I just eat smaller portions of balanced foods and have felt satisfied. Setting the table with my best plates, napkins and a tablecloth makes our meals more pleasant. Thank you for sharing and I am so grateful I took the time to watch your program.

[@susanoakeshauf]

Several things that you mentioned here or implied here are key, no matter what you eat. 1). No snacking in between meals 2). Getting your fill at meals 3). Avoiding ultra processed foods. 4). Getting some exercise every day.

[@catherineschulz3232]

My brother has been a cardio-thoracic surgeon for over 30 years. I mentioned to him that when buying groceries, one ought to stick to the perimeter of the market and skip the center aisles. I was shocked that he’d never heard that before, but I’m thrilled that now - just a few years before he retires - he has a new way to council his patients on eating better and cutting out unwanted processed foods.

[@jylbek71]

And less stress!

[@fc4660]

The enjoyment of food is a big factor. Enjoy it in moderation. Don’t feel guilty when you have it.

[@sandylucas4279]

For me, my body, I cannot have everything. If I have fruit or anything sweet it triggers insatiable cravings. When I eliminate them completely I am fine. It is important for everyone to find what works best for them and not conform to what others are doing.

[@tereyes5633]

Fruit doesn't usually satisfy my unless I have with protein i.e Greek yogurt. Best bet is to eat berries. They anti inflammation and don't raise blood sugar as high

[@katiestegman8083]

I've read your book and several others that cover this topic, but boy did I need to hear it again. Your video was so well-timed. It's important to note that those specialty diets will always have people who think it's the only way to eat, but the thing about all of them is they're not sustainable. Anything that requires enormous amounts of restriction and will power will never last. The French diet is so appealing, because it includes everything (even what we refer to as the "naughty" stuff), but it's done so in a healthy, moderate way. Thanks for the great reminder!

[@joysilas4724]

Jennifer I really am so glad you posted this video! I was doing a Whole Foods plant based diet and it was so sad to make myself feel like eating meat or dairy was going to give me cancer or some chronic illness. I had to let that go. So glad I did!

[@softsophisticate]

Mediterranean Diet is apparently the healthiest in the world - lots of plants - fruit, veg, salads, herbs, plus fish, seafood, chicken, eggs, cheese, some meat etc, carbs are bread, rice and pasta. I think the real secret is that it is fresh, good quality and home cooked meals. Enjoyed at the table in a leisurely way (I'm convinced this reduces stress) a glass of red wine also has antioxidants.

[@katiestevenson8920]

That was my experience of Paris. I had the most delicious and decadent meals and pastries yet because of all the walking I toned up.

[@aimeepaul9972]

My experience too! I ate a gelato at least once a day in Europe and somehow lost 4 lbs by the time I got home. 😂

[@christineward7146]

Thanks for this video, I am English but this way of eating was very similar to what I did when growing up. We were a large family of 10 but we always had 3 meals a day with dessert after dinner and we always sat the table. We didn't snack between meals at all because we didn't need to. We didn't own a car so we walked everywhere. Our children have flown the nest now but my husband and I still eat the table. Our problem is we do a lot of snacking. This video has prompted me to stop and I'm going to do that from today

[@kathleensmith644]

I am very similar to you. I too come from a large family of 10 children. I am now 74 and I was the youngest. We always ate at the table and helped to set the table properly and prepare parts of the meals ,like shelling peas. Oh how good those peas tasted instead of the frozen and tinned peas we eat today. Food was always seasonal and not available all year round. Nowadays it is tasteless and force grown. But I have always prepared and cooked our meals from fresh ingredients and we always sat at the table to eat. I had a full time job as well as a family to take care of and it was hard work. Today however people don’t seem to have the time to prepare food and cook. They eat out or grab quick snacks and there lies the problem of getting fat, overweight and less healthy. Eating meals together and talking around a table seems to be a thing of the past. People stare at their phones and tablets not even talking to each other, just putting tasteless junk into their mouths. It is a sad state off affairs. Then they go on holidays as a family but their phones and tablets go as well and they wonder why they don’t communicate anymore. Taking time to share a good nourishing meal, seems to be a thing of the past. Even going out for a meal isn’t what it was. Now food is no longer freshly prepared it’s all made from packeted ingredients yuck. Even in hospitals it is the same ready meal ingredients, how do they expect people to get well. People are becoming unfit and unwell and they don’t seem to care. It is such a sad state to be in.

[@LisaM.601]

This is by far definitely my favorite episode yet! Incredibly helpful for my own culinary and lifestyle aspirations, I love that you said dinner together created a structure and a dignity to meals. The book, “Home Sweet Maison” emphasizes how every room in a French home has a raison d’etre, clearly confirmed by the lifestyle and habits of Famille Chic. I can honestly say that my experience in eating French meals just recently left me totally satiated and not wanting snacks at all because the food was so incredible. Thank you for a fantastic offering today ♥️

[@hopeinparis]

What a great video! I've lived in France for over 40 years and everything you say is true. No moralizing, no guilt trips - just a lucid observation of what the French do and don't do regarding food. The French have a balanced approach to life in general, including eating. Not snacking and not overeating are ways they practice healthy limits, and taking pleasure in eating actually facilitates this. That is the true French secret. Thank you and love from Paris.

[@wendygaonach3908]

I'm a Canadian living in Brittany, France. My husband is Breton and has always cooked for us. Fresh ingredients, no huge helpings, and delicious food. I lost 10 kg when we moved, I was no longer eating out or working downtown and eating fast food. I'm short, 5 foot 1, so over the years I've had to replace all my clothes. I do see French people eating a lot more "American" food, and the resulting weight gain. My son grew up slim and well-fed, and has taken his dad's good habits back to Canada where he is studying and cooking his meals!

[@mariadegan1029]

I also learned from my Italian Nonna (on my mother’s side) who lived a healthy long (101!) life “Everything in moderation” and that is definitely my moto! No snacking lots of walking ( l moved to Italy at 18) and NEVER EVER any deprivation, l love good food and certainly enjoy it😊

[@Laura-rx9mp]

Thank you Jennifer. And yes ,culturally, we are more familiar (I am cuban) , had about the same breakfast - cuban bread, lots of butter and the ever present cafe con lethe, no snacks then lunch, plenty of fresh produce and a nice piece of protein and no dessert, dinner was more substantial and sometimes we would have dessert. We walked everywhere and really didn't make a big deal out "a meal". always ate dinner as a family and definitely no TV on. Upbringing matters, and of course when we had dessert it was sugar cane not super processed corn syrup etc. ok Ive preached enough and I really appreciate hearing from other cultures! Cheers

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I love this!

[@Karen-ve6ds]

Sounds like how I was brought up. I’m English.

[@21972012145525]

What do you mean "really didn't make a big deal out a meal"?

[@Laura-rx9mp]

As children we deferred to adults with regards to timing of meals and choices themselves. We ate. Aaaaand must be bathed prior to that dinner lol. My brother hated that

[@amytpaul5837]

Lovely tips Jennifer, thank you. Something I do to increase my activity level is walk while my children are doing an extracurricular activity instead of sitting in the car or waiting area.

[@bessmay5353]

I ran in so many different places during those years of middle school and high school sports/4H. I attribute being healthy now at 55(and still running) to not sitting at all my kids' extracurricular activities.

[@fundamonium]

What a great idea! I will be walking around the cricket field at the next practice!

[@marie-francesbarnett7616]

I enjoyed your message since I can relate to being in Paris and how they have their meals…. I have French relatives and when I visited the last time, they definitely don’t snack in between meals. When we would watch a movie after dinner, they would not be snacking. They would have wine with both their lunch and dinner, drink room temperature water and go for walks often after dinner!

[@elizabethglenbentley7882]

A very enjoyable video! I grew up with exactly the identical protocol regarding how/when/what was eaten etc. 1. "Good manners maketh a man" 2. What you eat as in a good, healthy variety makes our microbiome happy! 3. Eat and enjoy the rainbow on your plate! 4. Community/family eating together at a sit-down table that's properly thought and laid out makes for a much more pleasant atmosphere and experience. Simple yet cosy! My weight has remained pretty steady ven j my seventies. Good food never needs a feeling of guilt ever!

[@1960genius]

This was gold, Jennifer. Thank you! When I cut out processed foods, I feel better no matter what I eat.

[@jeanab3840]

About 10 years ago I found you and read this. I needed to lose about 10-15 lbs so I started doing it this way and i immediately lost the weight. Well I just had a baby in December and would love to drop this last 15 lbs and I had been thinking about this! Your video is great encouragement.

[@Loy1950]

When you exposed your white earrings, the whites of your eyes got so bright! I noticed the same thing happen to myself when I was young and beautiful..,just like you!

[@Joliefleur252]

I’m french . Very good video 👍👍 French do not typically eat cheese after each dinner because cheese is expensive. It is more of a week end treat. Same for pastries and ice cream. They were probably being very welcoming towards a foreigner. This said, parisians are welthier than the rest of France, just like new yorkers. Parisians are lso thinner and fitter than the rest of france also ☺️.

[@videogamekitty]

People should keep in mind that most of these other diets like carnivore can be used longer term, but are often used short term for those who need to heal from severe health issues. This is especially true if there are food intolerances, blood sugar issues, fatty liver issues, etc.

[@EE-hi4re]

The ONLY way I pulled myself out of obesity was with OMAD + KETO. I'm no longer KETO but I refuse to eat factory made food.

[@21972012145525]

How did you prevent nutrient deficiencies with omad. I nearly lost all my hair and I wasn't even strict. Became low in iron, vit d, and zinc.

[@bintshanda1]

@@21972012145525I think protein needs to be your top priority doing OMAD otherwise you may lose weight but you’ll be deficient for sure.

[@victoriamorris8678]

Hello from France🇫🇷 I am French and live in the Versailles area. Well everything you mentioned is true... Most of all, French people really enjoy their food, it is a social moment, something they share , families do eat together every evening at the table, and also for lunch if you work outside the home you eat with your colleagues. Snacking has a bad rep. We also learn how to cook from an early age, I remember my 6 year old daughter chopping vegetables for the ratatouille, my 8 year old making the omelette ( and being proud because his grandfather was so good at making it... like a family tradition). Now they are in their twenties and they cook their own food, never order pizza or anything. French people walk a lot indeed! I would say that the younger generation tends to have food delivered more but it so expensive that they don't do it that often. What is more common for the younger generztion is to meet at onés friend's house, and all the guests/friends bring something that they have made themselves like a salad a quiche a tart.. French people sit in order to eat, even for a sandwich, and set the table.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you for sharing this! And I love that your children were involved in the cooking at a young age!

[@ShannonHoffman-x1o]

How civilized!

[@halcyondays8945]

So so true! We recently moved cities and don’t have a dining area in our new home - just a long kitchen island that we hated eating at. I converted the den into our dining room and we are enjoying our meals so much more now and they feel so much more special. You are so right about these habits and I’ve noticed that a lot of my French Canadian clients and families have similar habits and most of them are slim. My current clients are slim despite eating very heavy food because they don’t snack and they stay very active. 86 and still riding a bike every day they can! I’ve decided to adopt their no-snack habit and while I haven’t lost weight from that yet my energy levels are so much better and my digestion has improved too. I’m convinced now that a grazing habit is an energy and health thief.

[@jprats96]

Thank you, Ms. Jennifer for this lovely and beautiful videos of yours, you are an inspiration to me. I am now 28 years old and I want to elevate my daily lifestyle and your videos really help me to be a better version of myself, not just me but also I want to be a good example to my sisters and younger generations.

[@PeaceIsYeshua]

I love this! ❤

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you so much!

[@frederikac.5153]

I agree with your conclusion. I was raised in Europe, but have lived in Canada since I was 23 years old. I never had soda pop or fast food while growing up, and always had home cooked meals with lots of vegetables and fruits. I’ve kept those habits, don’t drink sugary drinks and avoid fast food. In today’s economy buying healthy foods is expensive, but it’s so important. No foods should be off limits, have your piece of cake once in a while! And what is life without chocolate?

[@theresiavanzyl3051]

I'm from Switzerland, living on a farm in Africa now but I've never put it in words as you did...I guess we just live that way without thinking about it, that it could be different in other places of the world... I find it quite amusing that other cultures find it so special that a video is made out of it... for us it's just natural to live that way...

[@saharsameer1697-v6i]

I can’t tell you how much I LOVE your videos and your amazing personality Jennifer!!❤️

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you! ♥

[@cheryllust5317]

Thank you…something we all need to learn. Families need to return to meals together.

[@ashlynnkaplan680]

This was so refreshing! I am seeing more and more extreme diets and lifestyles exemplified on social media and even from others around me in an effort to just stay healthy. Our culture has over-complicated and intensified ideas to just live a simply healthy life. At 32 years old, post third baby… I am finally experiencing being a little overweight and feeling the need to make a lifestyle change. Became more sedentary, as I was more tired and eating on the go, not eating at all, or eating leftovers from the kids… I am slowly changing these habits to look more like the kind of life you explained here and already I’m noticing changes in my energy and my weight! And it isn’t hard. I have been so discouraged by our culture and how difficult it has been made to lose some weight and have vitality. Returning to these simple ideals is really where it is at. Thank you for sharing!

[@luluandmeow]

In Italy too we didn't snack when I was growing up in the 70s, the kitchen was closed between meals. Pastries, etc. were a treat for holidays/birthdays, not something you ate at every meal or every day. Adults in Italy in the 70s did not have breakfast apart from coffee, so it was a way to fast and have just 2 meals a day. Lunch was a big meal but dessert was just fruit, dinner was lighter. We cooked from scratch. I haven't lived in Italy since then so I don't know if this has changed.

[@marionhowells5364]

I live in the U.K. and I am finally getting a healthier perspective on my food intake . I totally agree with your video today about not snacking constantly an intermittent fasting approach and where the kitchen is closed after dinner . I have noticed in the USA when visiting portion sizes feed two people and now when I visit on holiday I share one entree with another family member wherever possible . Thank you for a great video .

[@fionah3433]

So true! All "regular" restaurants here (other than fine dining) serve enormous portions. I always bring home half or more of my food on the rare occasions that I eat out.

[@barbarawhite7385]

I truly believe that their way is similar to all things in moderation and there is a time for everything under the sun. I thoroughly enjoyed this video. Have a wonderful week 💖🍁✨

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I agree, Barbara!

[@karencox3235]

This way of eating makes total sense to me, and in a sense that is basically how I grew up in the 70s in So. California. Unfortunately, I have gotten away from the "no snacking" rule and am fighting my weight. I will incorporate your ideas and see if I can improve.

[@jodrew1845]

I love your description of guilt free eating. As a woman who grew up with a weight problem, it has taken many years for me to teach myself to eat consciously as well as manage my portion sizes. It's my opinion that portions in the USA are way out of control along with the snacking. Thankfully, I live in NYC so like Paris, taking a walk after a meal is part of our built-in lifestyle.

[@ali_plz]

Such great advise! I am trying to eliminate snacking and I am seeing progress on the scale just within 3 days! My water weight has gone down! I didn’t know this but sugar makes you retain water I thought only salt did, and every time you put something in your mouth you trigger insulin release which stops fat burning.

[@dragicabanjac7298]

I like your observations about eating habits in France and I totally agree with them. While in France, I remember, our dinners were a social matter as well and used to last around 2 hours every day, with several courses, nice talks, a glass of wine and cheese at the end. And each time you finished your dinner you always felt light, not heavy! Amazing thing!

[@kerynl.sanchez9891]

My mom is 80, she follows no diet ever, healthiest person I know. She eats everything in moderation 🤷‍♀️ and doesn’t feel guilty about anything.

[@yolandasilverio1205]

Absolutely a valuable video. I am going on Intermittent Fasting for one year, and it is all because of you. You are an inspiration.

[@pam3744]

Not through the video yet but already thinking about how reasonable and balanced you are in presenting information. My history is that I would “go on” a certain diet, realize after a few days that it was too restrictive, and then the backlash would come in the form of binge eating. Over the last several years with intermittent fasting (nothing extreme) I’ve begun to heal my relationship with food. I no longer allow myself to think in extremes and I actually enjoy food and exercise. Life is good! Right now, though, I am struggling with the idea of using a Fitbit to track health metrics and steps, but I’m afraid of falling into all or nothing thinking again. I need to give that some more thought. Thank you, Jennifer ❤

[@slporter722]

After so many diets and diets programs, to me, it comes down to portion control and no snacking. Then eat whatever you want.

[@21972012145525]

I find you can do snacking, if you do portion control and consider it a semi meal

[@caroldameron1065]

Thanks ever, Jennifer. I also lived in France (Dijon) with a French family, as well as in Paris, for art school. The French diet is exactly what you say and I noticed that the portions were smaller-normal-and the French don’t indulge in second helpings. Happy and thin!

[@BlueBird8925]

I found this video such a refreshing and interesting discussion on diet. I went to France years ago and noticed how few people are overweight compared to us North Americans (I’m Canadian). Portion sizes in North America is a huge problem. I can’t believe how huge they are in Restaurants and takeout. People become accustomed to this and eat similar sized meals at home. We could also learn something about eating slowly and savouring food. So many people just wolf down their food without appreciating it (or noticing how much they’re eating). Great video.

[@marieweiss1634]

So true that having a structure around eating changes eating habits for the better! I don't ever remember snacking when I was a child or lived at home except the odd piece of fruit or perhaps a biscuit or slice of cake for afternoon tea. There's something about food being in measure and available that turns off the craving which then leads to overeating and not feeling satisfied. Thanks so much for this enlightening information. 😊

[@catherinefriel6149]

Hi from London Jennifer! I'm a long time viewer and really loved this video. Just a few thoughts - for context, we're similar ages but I am the youngest of seven children and grew up in the S.W. London suburbs. Our mum would cook everything from scratch which means we all learned by osmosis! This was more of out of economy more than anything - and probably a mild suspicion of anything 'shop bought' (!) but I feel very fortunate for this. This video rings very true for me, perhaps some of it wasn't quite as strict (hard to have a 'no snacking' rule when there's often 9 people in the house!) but generally, food was made, shared and deliberated over. The conversation was more, 'can you guess what's in it?' rather than a polarising, 'is it good or bad.' There was definitely a focus on whole, nutritionally dense foods but as much as possible, food was a cause for celebration. My mum is the youngest of five and, growing up I remember there would always be aunts and uncles coming and going from their allotments and bring back veg/ herbs etc. and all of my mums siblings would have lived through the war so they remembered rationing and I do wonder if this created a very particular from of resourcefulness. Fast forward to now and one of my sisters lives in Boston MA. Her husband is British but her three boys have grown up in the US. They come back to the UK each year and (sorry Americans) but I hear from her that the food is just not the same. She devours sourdough bread with lashings of butter when she's back in the UK, the same with yogurts, cheeses, definitely strawberries and yes... chocolate is a whole other thing. It's easier to be sated when the quality is different and I imagine even more so in France. I'm not sure what my point is but I love talking about this and the cultural/familial impact and really enjoyed this video. Thanks! x

[@nadiabennour9335]

This is the most relevant video on staying fit , it is sincerely shared and I agree as I come from Mediterranean country close to same French habits and since I moved to North America 32 years ago, my weight increased in the first years and couldn’t get rid of it although with all kinds of diets but this video made a wake up call for me

[@treluvstrees999]

Such a lovely video! I once lost many pounds when I only ate at a table, on a nice plate, and no snacks. I cherished every meal.

[@donnateeple7316]

I totally agree with all your points! My husband and I have embraced this life style for 45 years. We enjoy our food and have an active life style. Snacking isn’t a part of our lives. It is a lovely way to enjoy life!

[@MollyRock-y3y]

I really enjoyed this video and watching it reminded me that growing up on a farm in Ireland we never ate between meals and we always sat down together for our meals. My extended relatives would have also lived like this and I did not meet a fat person until I was about 19 years old when I started working and we all discovered snacking and processed food in the city. Thank you and take care.

[@TheMistri]

This is revolutionary to an American! Wow thank you for sharing this. What a beautiful and dignified way of life.

[@gumbootgardener]

I discovered intermittent fasting and Dr. Jason Fung through you and started fasting in March 2021. In eight months I lost 30 pounds and have kept it off. I grow and preserve most of our food and cook from scratch. I find sugar to be very addictive so try to avoid it. Before fasting, the weight always came back but so far this is working. Thank you, Jennifer.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

That's wonderful news! I'm so happy for you!

[@alcogito8287]

My intermittent fasting is rather loose as it is breakfast about 9 am and dinner about 6 pm, but no snacks. It suits my lifestyle and helps me keep my healthy BMI at 22. Carelessness drove my weight up about 15 years ago, but better habits brought it back down and it never went up again. No diets, just habits.

[@debbiemize2269]

I toured Europe in 2007 and while the others in the group were saying how much they would gain eating all the rich food we were served, I lost 8 pounds during that 3 week tour! I told my husband yes, I ate very well on the tour, but we were walking it seemed sunup to sundown! (He didn’t go on the tour). I felt better on my return home than I had in a long time!

[@nikolinamilardovic4108]

Great lipstick shade for you!

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you! It's Merit Maison! I linked it above. ♥

[@deannab9511]

All these tips are so important and helpful to maintain throughout life and I've kept them in the back of my mind since reading your book years ago. This also makes me want to reread your books again! That green top really makes your eyes pop beautifully!

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you, DeAnna!

[@ykk239]

I can relate to this as I also spent a semester abroad in France in 1993. My diet was fantastic, varied and delicious. I was in the south (Grenoble) and we also walked a great deal. For the first time in my life, "new" to me foods like salade niçoise and coddled eggs were introduced to my palate. We ate plenty of pastries and coffees. So many delicious vegetables.

[@evasochocki5209]

Due to my husband’s work schedule, I eat dinner alone most days. Even so, I still use my Johnson brothers plates,bowls,and cups. All I need to do now is conquer the snacking between meals habit. And that’s all it is really. It’s just a habit. Thank you for this video.

[@taracromp1960]

Great video, Jennifer. Thank you. It is so easy to get caught up in the various diet mania. I'm guilty of succumbing to it. Extremism in any area of life is not sustainable.

[@sandriagutierrez2605]

Many years ago I had the privilege of listening to Elizabeth Elliot speak at a conference in NJ. She was asked during the q&a what she did to stay so slim. Her reply was comical, but wise. ‘I serve myself what I want to eat, then I take a knife, slice it right down the middle and return half of it into the pot.’ I have been following that principle for sometime now, and this discipline has served me well into my 60’s.

[@fionah3433]

Great way to save money too!

[@sandriagutierrez2605]

@@fionah3433 true!

[@marychristian9978]

This is so delightful...if only people did this. In Australia the closest we came to this was Sunday lunch. Sport plays a huge factor as you find during the week someone will be training somewhere at whatever time and games held on weekends. I just love the way your home is decked out. I feel inspired❤

[@gabipolit4973]

I am Latin American from Ecuador. I was surprised by what you said because the French lifestyle seems to me quite similar to the way I was raised. No food between meals, no snacks, no guilt. We always ate together with our whole family. We never watched TV while eating.

[@susannahfox7188]

Hey, I was just thinking the same thing! An American living in Ecuador. Buen provecho!

[@HayleyatHome_]

Your Madame Chic books have a place of honor on my nightstand. I actually have the audio too and love to put it on as I do chores. I was listening yesterday as I mowed (chic right? 😂). Your experience in Paris has enriched so many lives. ❤

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you, Hayley! ♥

[@marilynbara6330]

Thanks so much for a beautiful, fresh video about a topic that sometimes feels overdone. I love Paris, I love the French attitude and customs around delicious food and around enjoying family, friends and life. Smart, helpful, beautifully done video - thank you!

[@DianeEp2017]

That shirt makes your eyes look gorgeous!

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you!

[@debakanyapradhan9058]

I am an India living in US. I make it a point to buy vegetables/ fruits and prepare my meals at home even it's a quick 10 min meal. I try not to consume deep fried/ frozen food of any sort. I completely agree with the fact that the surroundings have an impact on our lives meaning the fruits / vegetable we buy or our eating pattern etc at the same time I also believe in what we chose and how we want to live depends completely on us. I lived in UK, Europe and currently in US but my habit of preparing fresh Indian food and consuming on daily basis is instilled In me.

[@amandahaynes2194]

I think you give some really great points about how we approach food, they were things I found good when I first read your books. I will say I found the video title a little off putting but I am glad I watched as I knew you are not someone that pushes fad diets on anyone. I just wish it leaned towards healthy instead of slim, as that word it can have a poor connotation with eating habits. I definitely agree with taking away the stigma of guilt associated with food and being more intentional and formal when we dine. It is good for us as well as our children. Thanks for the positive video.

[@ColettaDesign]

Your blouse is the best color for you. It matches your eyes perfectly!!

[@theresaarnold8911]

Due to poor diet, I have experienced serious health issues. I still enjoy an occasional treat, but otherwise, I am very strict about fasting and avoiding almost all carbs and sugar. Most of these diets follow that theme.

[@kathykathrynm9375]

I am a few months from being 80. My family was fairly large. During most of my childhood, my mother was a full-time teacher. My dad worked too. We didn’t have much processed food. We always had 3 nice meals with desert following dinner. Our portions were generous. None of us was fat. We didn’t snack. We rarely had food leftover from dinner. No one I saw on tv, or in person was really fat. Two things happened to change that; fast food drive-through availability and the USDA “food pyramid”. It was a killer!

[@lindseystewart3194]

Great video. I love your books as well. Snacking is usually terrible for our health because we often have unhealthy snacks. They don't satisfy, but rather lead to craving more carbs. French food is actually full of good fats in my opinion. Butter and cream is healthy and satisfying, leading to less cravings for carbs and sugar.

[@halcyondays8945]

Yes I’ve stopped snacking unless absolutely famished. I’ve made a rule that if I’m hungry enough to need a snack - some raw carrots or an apple or a few almonds will do just fine. Healthy foods like that are so delicious and satisfying if you’re truly hungry!

[@jacquelynconnally4854]

As always, I love your take on this subject. This video is so timely as this has all been top of mind for me lately. It seems like everyone has their own view when it comes to some of these super restrictive diets and lifestyles. I agree with you and what you saw lived out during your time in France. There has to be a dose of moderation in everything! While living in France you may not have had what we now consider to be a healthy breakfast, but you were balancing that out by walking so much more than we are able to do daily in most places in America. I also have daughters and know how harmful diet culture can be to them - I never want them to feel like they need to be on any certain diet, but I do think a healthy lifestyle is important. Thanks again for a delightful video!

[@bleakachica]

Walking is huge. Maintaining this lifestyle and staying lean was effortless when I lived in major cities and got everywhere by foot. Much greater struggle in the suburbs even hitting the gym. I think it's part of spending consistent time outdoors and being a part of an active community.

[@elizabethpace1591]

It’s so much better to have meals at the dinner table than either walk around eating or on the couch, it’s much more civilised 🙂

[@CAEO416]

Everything you described was exactly like my time spent in Italy with extended family. Very different to how we eat in Australia.

[@JP-nl4dp]

I was in France for 8 days and lost a couple of pounds. I had no desire to snack as my meals filled me. We ate breads, butter, meat, cheeses vegetables and desserts. They use natural ingredients and ingredient lists are short without all the artificial additives so it’s more filling. It’s how I ate when I was young and my mom had her own garden. I was always a healthy weight as a kid. I’ve tried shifting to eating better made food which can be challenging. I’m lucky as there is a great food shop in my town where they focus on local, home grown food.

[@mrsjennym]

This is the way! 😊 Americans (I.e. me) are so obsessed with food- to the point of obesity or being skinny but over analyzing everything and not enjoying the simple pleasures of food. I’m fighting to fix that for my family and me, but old habits die hard and when you are dieting to correct past behavior it is really hard to not be food obsessed! I love the moderation you espouse- that is definitely the best way for me. Thanks for the insights and inspiration!

[@alcogito8287]

Actually, you might be surprised to that you don't have to "diet" or be food-obsessed to get back to a normal weight. Just develop some new habits such as no snacking, nothing after dinner, cooking fresh foods at home and enjoy 3 nice meals a day. If you avoid buying such offenders as packaged foods, bad oils, and sugary items (cereals) and get some exercise, you will surprise yourself with what those new habits will bring you.

[@gabrielleborlovan9266]

I cannot tell you just how much you inspire me! Thank you for such a refreshing channel and always keeping it classy 😊

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you! ♥️

[@skincaremakeup40]

Your list is exactly hat we do in Italy and,i sospetto,in all Europe.Ecery single point:no snacking,no solo eating,no eating while walking or doing something:wgat is let is just the pure joy in processing our own food from raw materials and then sharing it with the rest of the family,on a nicely set table

[@6pixiestix]

This is THE most helpful diet advice video I have ever watched-MERCI!✨ 🌹🍃🍽️ 🌟Saving & Sharing🌟

[@itstime2bnice]

I enjoyed reading your books! You have been/are a blessing to the world! ❤️

[@teresaproano7984]

A wonderful reminder thank you! 🎉