There are some primary differences between the euros and Americans as it pertains to overall health and food consumption. At least based on what I have observed myself.
First, and as noted above, they walk and bike a lot more than Americans. They also seem to be outdoors more and more active in outdoor activities. The condo I recently spent a week at in Lucerne, while nice, didn't have a single tv set in it.
Second, the emphasis on looks, beauty, fashion, whatever you want to call it, seems culturally ingrained and much more prevalent than here. This includes a slim and/or healthy body appearance.
Finally, and this is probably the biggest, is how they shop. Large grocery stores and big box places are not nearly as prevalent as here. Most euros buy small amounts of food that are consumed in a few days. There are small stores everywhere including denser metro areas. They are full of fresh produce, dairy, and meats. By contrast, American consumers mostly shop at big grocery stores and/or big box. We buy larger quantities that have shelf lives or can be frozen. Those types of foods are loaded with additives and preservatives because they have to be to last longer. Two totally different approaches to food shopping.
Personally, outside of Italy I think the cooking over there kinda sucks but it's undeniable they eat fresher foods with much fewer additives/preservatives, and are more active then average American.
