Naturopathic nutritionist Rosemary Ferguson talks food philosophies and model living.
31 October, 2019
It may seem ironic, given her current profession, that 90s model-turned-nutritionist Rosemary Ferguson was scouted in McDonald's, aged 15. Her youth was shared with the likes of Kate Moss and Emma Balfour, her modelling heyday a balance of hardwork and wild nights.
It seems that balance is an enduring component of Ferguson daily life - as I discovered from our pre-lunch pow wow. Ferguson is realistic, well-read and is by no means claiming holier-than-thou status. We discussed everything from maintaining equilibrium in body and mind to her favourite nutrition-focused wellness retreats and why her 5 Day Plan might be the total reset you're craving.
It is all about making healthy living achievable; I believe that life has to be lived and that through nutrition and a bit of self-care you can give your body the tools it needs to cope with the crazy lives we lead. Food should be the first port of call to feel better in yourself, mentally and physically.
My 5 Day Plan runs once a month, Monday to Friday, and each day a delivery is made to your door with breakfast, lunch, dinner, supplements, juices and snacks designed to stimulate the metabolism, give the digestive system a break, increase energy levels, boost the immune system and give the body a well-needed dose of vitamins and minerals. These five days really highlight where you can make your diet more nutrient dense and also flag how often you go for the less than ideal food choice.
A nutritionist is an expert in the field of all things nutrition. I advise clients on what they should eat and take according to their unique case/ make-up. A naturopath is a health practitioner who applies natural therapies, which comprise of far more than fasting, nutrition, water and exercise; naturopathy includes approved natural healing practices such as homeopathy, acupuncture and herbal medicine.
I've always been interested in food and how it can help you. Especially when modelling as I was constantly fighting jet lag, fatigue, hangovers... and I wanted my skin to always look fresh. Knowing what could help from the inside became a real passion. I went back to college and studied so I could further my knowledge and help others.
It's something I've always wanted to do and when modelling began slowing down and I started having more children, I felt it was the right time to do it.
Stay clear of processed foods. Eat lots of fresh, brightly coloured fruit and veg. With each meal make sure half of your plate is vegetables. Always include lean protein and complex carbs - sweet potato, brown rice, quinoa etc. These will help to keep your blood sugar levels balanced and therefore stabilise your energy. Hydration is also key.
B-vitamin complex, fish oils, fibre, probiotics and alpha lipoic acid.
Revital, Whole Foods and Planet Organic.
I love relaxing at home. On the sofa or in bed watching a good film or series.
The LifeCo Bodrum or The Body Camp in Ibiza- the food here is delicious.
Nuts, seeds, chia seeds to add to your water and fruit - you need fibre to keep everything moving.
Sometimes. I'm organised and have snacks and I usually opt for a vegan/ gluten-free meal as it is less irritating to the gut.
Hydration inside and out. Drink plenty of water or herbal tea - the reason we feel so awful the other side is because if lack of hydration. I also like to use a hydrating sheet mask in-flight - Decorte make a great one. A refreshing face mist also does the trick - there's a lovely one by Penny Frances Apothecary. I also use Augustinus Bader extra-strong cream and Verso serum.
Deia, Mallorca; Formentera and Ibiza; Goa, India.
I am a fan of medicinal mushrooms and I have researched a lot about Amazonian plant medicine.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris.
Travelling can be stressful; ensure you have enough time, make sure everything is organised a couple of days before and do what you can to eliminate any unnecessary stress.
New York and then Arizona for functional-medicine training.
Supplemental powders, always. I'm a big fan of a shake and I find it an easy way to get nutrition in if I'm on the go. I travel with a good selection of black cami vests (my favourite), my Kindle and all my beloved serums, tinctures and face oils.
