There’s More to the French Diet Than Wine

Thomas Maugh’s May 31 column, “Study Dilutes the Wine Theory,” neglected to mention the way French people take their meals and their general lifestyle as far as heart attacks are concerned.

I have spent a month in France on more than one occasion, and when I returned home, I had lost 15 pounds each time. While I was there I ate what they ate and lived as they live.

The French take their largest meal in the middle of the day--not in the evening as we do. They also eat slowly, and have a variety of fruits and vegetables with their meals over several small courses. Appetizers are usually protein.

Also, with the exception of the self-employed, everyone has a six-week vacation and must take it.

--DOREEN LORAND

Downey