The French are know are known as the best chefs in the world, and many people love French food. However, most French food is very rich in duck fat and/or butter, so when you are watching what you eat, the many options that are offered narrow down to a slim selection. In French cuisine, there are usually some healthy options like: salads with beans, pureed bean soups, colorful vegetable salads, vegetable crepes, and plenty of different types of grilled fish. Skip the old time favorite "French Onion Soup", it sounds healthy, but it's made with beef stock and has a big helping of sodium. If you want a soup, stick to a vegetable soup, and always skip on the croutons (croutons are nothing more than bread that have bathed in hot oil). As good as French deserts are, they are coated with lots of butter and sugar, so for dessert, stick to an espresso or tea with a piece of fresh fruit. Always consume plenty of water throughout your meal.

Quick Reference for French Food

HEALTHY FRENCH DISHES

Bouillabaisse (Seafood - Fish, Shellfish, Vegetables, Herbs)
Cod Boulangère (Fish - Cod, Vegetables)
Coq au Vin (Poultry - Chicken, Vegetables, Herbs, Wine)
Provençal Vegetable Pistou (Soup - Vegetables, Pasta, Herbs)
Ratatouille (Vegetarian - Bell Peppers. Eggplant, Garlic, Onion, Tomato, Zucchini, Olive Oil)
Roasted Beet Salad (Salad - Beets, Onion, Mustard)
Salad Niçoise (Salad - Vegetables, Tuna, Anchovy)
Seafood Brochette (Seafood - Shrimp, Scallops, Onion, Thyme)
Vegetable Crêpes (Vegetarian - Dough, Vegetables, Cheese)
Zucchini Tart (Vegetarian - Dough, Zucchini, Onion, Garlic, Cheese)

FRENCH DISHES TO STAY AWAY FROM

Blanquette de Veau (Meat - Veal)
Boudin Blanc (Meat - Sausage)
Cassoulet (Poultry - Duck, Sausages, Beans)
Crème Brûlée (Dessert - Egg, Sugar, Cream)
Duck Confit (Poultry - Duck, Duck Fat, Spices)
Éclairs (Dessert - Butter, Flour, Eggs)
Foie de Veau (Meat - Calf's Liver)
Foie Gras (Poultry - Goose Liver)
Profiteroles (Dessert - Butter, Flour, Cream)
Steak Frites (Meat - Steak, Fries)

This website is intended as a reference only, not as a medical manual. The information given is designed to help you make informed decisions about your health. It is not intended as a substitute for any treatment that may have been prescribed by your doctor. If you feel that you have a medical problem, please seek immediate medical help. Before starting any diet, you should consult with your doctor.