European paradox is a paradox only
on the surface. Foods that are naturally high in fat such as best
European brands of cheeses, have higher Fat Burning Index. These foods
shift metabolism toward fat-utilizing biochemical pathway and away from
the carbohydrate pathway.
Also, full-fat foods reduce carb
absorption and this further increases Fat Burning Index.
Every American tourist that returned from Europe admits that Europeans
are much thinner than Americans.
Michael Fumento wrote in his book "The
Fat of the Land" that the average North American is more than 16 pounds
heavier than the average Northern European and that the US has almost
three times as many grossly obese people as Sweden. "Yet by our
[American] standards they are doing everything wrong," he added.
Let's look at some statistical data.
| Obesity(*) Trends |
|
Year |
%
Male |
%
Female |
| Europe |
1961 |
7 % |
| USA |
1961 |
13 % |
| Sweden |
1988/89 |
5.3 |
9.1 |
| USA |
1988/89 |
32 |
33.5 |
| Europe |
Currently |
21.0 |
20.8 |
| USA |
Currently |
64 |
62 |
| European
teenagers |
Currently |
6.5 |
6.8 |
| USA
teenagers |
Currently |
13.9 |
15.1 |
How could it be? The latest
conclusion: Europeans serve smaller portions in the restaurants -- so,
the dietitians concluded, such is the Europeans' habit.
The most important question, however,
remains unanswered: Why do Europeans have such a habit?
Dr.
Zilberter suggests that the smaller European portions are the
result of higher fat consumption leading to higher Fat
Burning Index of European meals and resulting in decreased
appetite.
Banta Diet program uses high Fat
Burning Index foods and recipes to free you from hunger, cravings, and
counting fats, carbs, or calories. The portions become smaller
naturally.
* Obesity is defined in terms of Body Mass
Index (BMI). BMI describs the relationship between body weight and
height. Some dietitians use BMI as a measure of body fat.
|