Rediscovering Bread in Lisbon: From Taboo to Treasure
Many of us grew up with the notion that some foods were inherently "bad" for us, with bread often topping that list in the world of health and dieting. Yet, as a health coach and intuitive eating counselor who recently relocated to Lisbon, Portugal (I still can’t believe I am saying that - woohoo!), I've been inspired to revisit this notion and share a new perspective on this staple food that is deeply woven into the fabric of Portuguese culture.
Lisbon, with its charming trams and tiled facades, is not just a treat for the eyes but also a haven for bread lovers. Here, the art of bread-making is revered, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. The bread is soft, often warm, with a comforting texture that invites you to enjoy without remorse. This experience has been pivotal in reshaping my views on eating intuitively and joyfully.
Here’s how my journey in Lisbon has taught me to reintegrate "forbidden" foods like bread into a healthy lifestyle:
Cultural Appreciation
Living in Lisbon has deepened my appreciation for how food, like bread, plays a crucial role in bringing people together. The Portuguese gather around the table, sharing stories and slices of ‘Pão Caseiro’ (homemade bread). This has shown me that bread is more than just carbs; it's a catalyst for community and connection.
Quality Over Quantity
In Lisbon, the focus is on the quality of bread, not merely its caloric content. Artisanal methods, fresh ingredients, and a passion for the craft make each loaf a culinary masterpiece. Learning to prioritize quality and how food is made has helped me embrace bread as part of a balanced diet.
Intuitive Eating
Moving to a new city can challenge your usual diet routines, which was an ideal opportunity for me to continue to practice intuitive eating. By paying attention to the texture, taste, and satisfaction that Portuguese bread provides, I’ve learned to enjoy it without overindulgence.
Breaking Down Food Labels
The label of bread as a "bad" food is a hard one to shake. However, experiencing its cultural significance and seeing how locals cherish it has taught me to dismantle these labels and redefine what healthy eating looks like.
Exploration Through Food
Lisbon’s variety of breads, from the dense ‘Broa de Milho’ to the soft ‘Bolo do Caco’, has encouraged me to explore and experiment with these styles in my cooking. This exploration is a joyful journey that continuously teaches me about flexibility and pleasure in eating.
Embracing bread in Lisbon has not only expanded my culinary horizons but also reinforced the principles of intuitive eating—honoring hunger, respecting fullness, and enjoying the pleasures that foods like bread can bring. By letting go of old restrictions and embracing new experiences, we can all find a healthier, happier way to relate to food.
As we learn from Lisbon’s love affair with bread, perhaps it's time to bake new, healthier attitudes towards food into our lives. Here's to enjoying every bite, guilt-free!
