One of the rules that the French have established in their families is that there are three meals a day with a scarcity of second helpings or even snacks ("French Eating Habits") . Both articles believe that children's meals should be monitored by parents to establish habits that will lead to a leaner lifestyle as adults (Crister 162, “French Eating Habits”). According to “French Eating Habits,” in 2012 only about 15 percent of adults in France were obese. However, “25% of all Americans under nineteen are overweight or obese,” which speaks for itself (Crister 161). Crister thinks America could take a cue from the French when it comes to food: “Eating too much food is a bad thing”