4. Shop for healthy food at grocery stores
The aisles of the average Swiss grocery store are full of dried fruits, dried lean meats, nuts and seeds full of omega-3s, plus I counted at least six different types of healthful, unrefined baking flours. Conspicuously absent: the rows of refined carbs you so often see in Canada, like aisles full of white breads, pastas and rice, and junk food -- instead, you'll find that even the big Swiss grocery stores like Migros and Coop have a much higher percentage of non "white" options. Tip: when you're buying cereal, pick up some dried fruit or nuts to sprinkle over it. Plus, opt for whole-grain carbs whenever possible.
5. Enjoy the best chocolate -- in moderation
Swiss chocolate is world famous. If you've ever nibbled on a triangle of Toblerone or a Lindor chocolate ball, you'll have noticed it's delicious, too. But surely the Swiss don't eat it every day? "Actually, yes, people do tend to eat chocolate every day. Sometimes even a little bit after breakfast," says Priska Zahner, a public relations officer in St. Moritz. Indulge in a couple of small pieces of chocolate and chances are you won't feel deprived of sweets on your path to healthier eating.
6. Avoid fast-food restaurants
You won't find an abundance of fast-food chain restaurants in Switzerland, though you do see the odd McDonald's and Burger King. Out of sight (and smell), out of mind. There are other options for picking up good, cheap eats: vendors grilling local bratwurst sausages that come with a small brown roll, department store cafeterias that are surprisingly good, not to mention sushi bars that are popping up in the big cities. Tip: Avoid fast-food temptation by staying away from food courts at the mall, and giving the drive-through a miss. It's easy to make healthier choices by using some avoidance tactics.
Try these Swiss tips for keeping slim and you might find yourself not only more svelte, but healthier, too. Plus, you'll get to eat chocolate every day.
Read about how food colours can cause overeating.
Helen Racanelli is the web editor of CanadianLiving.com.
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