There are too many fat people in America, so many Americans are fighting against overweight. But the 1thing is that the French, who consume rich food2to stay thin. Now a3by Cornell University suggests 4life style and decisions about 5may affect weight. Researchers concluded that the French tend to stop eating when they feel6. However, Americans tend to stop when their 7are empty or their favorite TV show is over.

    According to Dr. Joseph Mercola, a 8expert, the French see eating 9an important part of their life style. They enjoy food and therefore spend a 10time at the table, while Americans see eating as 11to be squeezed between the other daily activities. Mercola believes Americans 12the ability to sense when they are actually full. So they keep eating long after the French would have13.In addition, he points out that Americans drive to huge supermarkets to buy canned and14foods for the week. The French15tend to shop daily, walking to small shops and farmers' markets where they have a 16of fresh fruits, vegetables, and eggs as well as high-quality meats for each meal.

    After a visit to the United States, Mireille Guiliano, author ofFrench Women Don't Get fat,decided to17about the importance of knowing when to stop rather than suggesting how to avoid18. Today she continues to stay slim and rarely goes to the gym.

    In spite of all these differences, evidence shows that recent life style 19may be affecting French eating habits. Today the rate of obesity(肥胖)—or extreme overweight—among adults is only 6%. However, as American fast food gains 20and the young reject older traditions, the obesity rate among French children has reached 17%—and is growing.