French women take pleasure in staying thin by eating well, while Americans typically see it as a conflict and obsess over it. French women don't skip meals or substitute slimming shakes for them. They have two or three courses at lunch and then another three (sometimes four) at dinner.

The Basics

In the book, Guiliano shares her life experiences - and encounters with food and healthy living. Intertwined with her story she shares insights to encourage you as the reader to take stock of how, what, and why you eat.

She then introduces the concept of true nourishment portioning (she calls this "recasting"). This is all about retraining habits and food choices - and pursuing balance.

No pizza three days in a row, but also no three hours at the gym on Saturday.

The book then focuses on long term "eating for pleasure". Her style of eating requires a whole different mindset from the typical American fast-food, super-size culture.

Are French Women Really That Thin?

Obesity rates in France are lower than that of the US, however 10% of women between ages 34 and 40 are obese¹.

Some critics have felt that the French Women book is misleading as it only really applies to the middle class. Guiliano responded by renaming the French version of the book "Those French Women Who Don't Get Fat".

Managing Appetite

Much of Guiliano's approach is based on the idea that less is more. Many Americans overeat as a general rule - and one must learn how to assess and satisfy appetite (which can sometimes be an psychological hunger as well as physical hunger).

On-line Approach

During 2006 Mireille Guiliano introduced a subscription-based program, however this has since been discontinued.

In some ways having a formal structure is helpful - but it can also make the concept a little more "diet-like".

The on-line program acts as a forum for Guiliano to share her insights and recommendations. Meal plans and recipes are also provided, as well as a guidelines for living.

The site also provides an opportunity engage with others who are pursuing a similar approach (a company of like-minded "French Women").

Source: UK Telegraph

Updated May 29 2009