Sienna Ford’s advise to anyone starting the Mediterranean diet is simple: “Start small and focus on the basics.” Her best pointers to get you going are here:
1. Embrace Olive Oil: Sienna advises “swap out olive oil everywhere you can for butter”. A mainstay of Mediterranean cooking and loaded with heart-healthy fats, extra virgin olive oil
2. Prioritize Vegetables: Half your plate should be filled with vegetables. “My go-t is roasted eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes,” she notes.
3. Choose Whole Grains: Replace refined grains with whole grains like farro, bulgur, and quinoa. They’re nutritious and keep you full longer.
4. Eat More Fish: “Aim for at least two servings of fish per week,” Sienna recommends. Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
5. Enjoy Fresh Fruit for Dessert: “Instead of sugary treats, end your meal with fresh fruit like figs, oranges, or grapes,” she adds.
For beginners wishing to adopt a sustainable lifestyle, Sienna’s advise is ideal. She ends, “The Mediterranean diet is about enjoying the process and sharing meals with loved ones, not just about food.”
