Portugal: A Nutritionists Perspective

I was lucky enough to travel across the Atlantic earlier this summer to vacation in one of the most beautiful places. As important as it is to separate your work and home life its hard not to examine how a different culture experiences food and exercise. I wanted to use this season’s newsletter to share some thoughts.

I had the most interesting experience at a restaurant in Lisbon. When ordering my fish entree, the chef first brought the serving of fish to the table to have me approve the portion size-at that time I can ask for a smaller or bigger piece. As an avid intuitive eater, I welcomed the idea that the chef did not assume he or she knew how hungry I was. I also realized this would decrease the amount of food waste. Perhaps restaurants in this country offer this option, I have to say I have never dined at one. 

When I travel I do my best to find a local yoga class. I find the universal language of yoga to have so many similarities across cultures while at the same time have unique nuances. My outdoor class in the duoro valley overlooking the vineyards did not disappoint. Whether located in Europe or the US, or spoken in English or Portuguese, a downward dog is still cued the same. I highly recommend next time you are someplace other than home engage in activity that you enjoy at home and experience it elsewhere. Notice the similarities and differences.