ROME, July 7, 2025
Why are Italians often slimmer than Americans?
One journalist’s observations from a month in Italy suggest portion sizes, snacking habits, and cultural values around food play a significant role.
- Italians consume more fish and less meat.
- They generally drink less alcohol and fewer sugary drinks.
- Portion sizes are smaller, and snacking is less frequent.
According to one journalist’s observations, the key difference between Italian and American diets comes down to where, when, how, and how much people eat. In Italy, the issue of excess weight appears to be less prevalent than in the United States.
Many travelers anticipate gaining weight while indulging in a foreign country’s cuisine. One journalist, however, found that a month-long trip to Italy in May challenged this expectation. «I had the great fortune to spend the entire month of May in Italy. And if you have heard the reports of people who go on vacation, they eat long and wide for the country and miraculously return home with a few more pounds, I’m here to tell you that it does not always go like this ».
Why might Italians maintain a healthy weight despite enjoying pasta, pizza, and gelato? Observations suggest several factors contribute to this phenomenon, including dietary choices, portion control, and cultural attitudes toward food.
Italians tend to incorporate more fish into their diets compared to Americans. They also generally consume less alcohol, meat, and added sugars. Carbonated drinks are also less popular in Italy.
While pasta is a staple in Italian cuisine, portion sizes differ significantly from those in the United States. The journalist noted that portion sizes in Italy appeared much more moderate. In the U.S., larger portions likely contribute to higher calorie consumption.
Snacking habits also vary between the two countries. In Italy, eating between meals is less common, with the exception of gelato. Even non-food stores dedicate less space to candies and snacks compared to their American counterparts.
«However, there is no doubt that food, and the way of eating it, is central to the sense of Italianness of many Italians. And a cuisine that is part of a national identity is something that America does not have,”. “But the biggest differences are in where, when, in how and how much you eat”. This observation highlights the cultural importance of food in Italy and its connection to national identity.
