Question:
Needing suggestions on food in Paris France...

I have been in Paris now for one week and I am having a VERY hard time finding food that feels safe to me. I am 3 1/2 months Post-Op and have not had any complications so far. I will be here for at least 2 months working and would greatly appreciate any tips on what to eat/not eat. THANKS!    — Michelle S. (posted on October 27, 2002)

October 27, 2002
Have you tried salad nicoise? There are lots of fish dishes and salads w/ goat cheese & nuts. Try fromage cubes and crudites (cheese cubes and raw vegetables). There are also some good soups. French onion without the bread is okay, just watch your overall sodium intake. Breakfast is tough! Can you go to the market? You could pick up some cheese & saucisson or other meat. One of my favorite foods in France is doner kebabs. I don't know if they have many shops in Paris, but they are really good...just eat the filling out of the pita. Also, have you tried choucroute, friand (with meat filling), or tarte flambe? They do have some carbs, but you can eat the parts you want. Lastly, even though McDonalds and Quick are fast foods, they DO have lots of healthy foods...salads, etc. I hope this helped! Good luck!!
   — Jen D.

October 27, 2002
I was in Paris last November -- at that time I was 10 mos. post-op and didn't have to take any food products with me. I ate their cheese, lots of personal size cheese pizzas, drank lots of water, chicken, yogurt, and fruit. You can find something you can eat all over the world. Just go and have fun!
   — Betty Todd

October 27, 2002
Michelle, if you can communicate in French, it's a lot simpler, but if you have facilities to make your own food, it's not difficult. Simply choose the same things you would eat at home. If you are eating out a lot, eat the protein stuff first, veggies second, carbos last. One thing you will find out about Paris is that if you buy food at the local supermarket (I remember Felix Potin!), you can find absolutely wonderful produce and dairy. You can buy a slice of lean ham at the charcuterie (place to buy pre-cooked things, and pork products). You can find part-skim milk cheeses at the cremerie. You can buy a single egg there, for that matter. I know it's hard but try to stay away from the patisseries (pastry shops) and boulangeries (bakers). If you eat the simply prepared steak (the French love good minute steak) and a fresh vegetable, you will do very well. French people in France do NOT eat rich food, heavy sauces, and sweet desserts every day. Many people follow a very simple "regime," and simply do not snack the way Americans do. Onion soup minus the crouton with all the cheese on it will be low in calories. Eat clear soups and bouillion. Eat grilled fish and chicken. And ENJOY!!! I loved living in Paris, and I hope you will, too. Margie B
   — Marjorie B.