Heroes Not Zombies

Since emigrating to France from Scotland I have the opportunity to eat outside A LOT more often.

Whether it’s having breakfast, a coffee, lunch, or “apero”, in my garden, or having a meal, or a drink at a cafe, bistro or restaurant « en terrasse » , the climate here just allows that to happen through most of the year.

There’s loads of advice about what constitutes “a good diet”, or “a healthy diet”, but until I came across some articles in French, I didn’t think much about the importance of the non-food aspects of “healthy eating”.

Where you eat influences your experience of eating. There’s something “extra” about being able to eat outside, whether that’s in natural surroundings, like the garden, or gazing out over the ocean or a lake, or in town, “people watching”. It adds to your enjoyment, so influences your emotions, the healthy chemicals in your blood, your heart rate, and even your immune system.

Who you share your food and drink with is important too. The « apero » is an especially social activity, often sharing a board or two of cheeses and charcuterie, accompanied by a beer or a glass of wine. It’s a family event, an event shared with neighbours and/or friends, and it’s more about the people than the food and drink.

The social aspect of eating and drinking is hugely important and takes food well beyond mere “nutrients” or “fuel”.

I love this more holistic way to think about “healthy eating”. It’s not that the food isn’t important. It is. But it’s “and not or”…..the environment and the relationships around the table are also important.

There’s something else which contributes to healthy, enjoyable eating, and that’s the power of food to evoke memories. Whether it’s Proust with his Madeleines, or the dish your mum used to make, or the meal you shared with a loved one, the particular dish can help you relive great moments, and strengthen your relationships.