Candace Cameron Bure's Nutritional Philosophy
Candace Cameron Bure's approach to eating is grounded in a philosophy of fueling her body for optimal health rather than just weight control. Her journey includes overcoming past eating disorder struggles, which has led to a healthier mindset about food. She focuses on wholesome, nourishing foods and listens to what makes her body feel its best.
Her diet is primarily plant-based, featuring abundant whole grains, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. While mostly vegan, she includes lean proteins like fish and egg whites, particularly favoring Starkist tuna and salmon pouches for convenience. She consciously limits dairy, red meat, and refined sugars, noting these changes have improved her digestion and reduced inflammation.
A Sample Day in Candace's Diet
Morning Routine
Candace starts her day with a quiet moment and a cup of matcha tea, which she enjoys before exercising. She practices intermittent fasting, meaning her first meal is later in the morning. Her go-to breakfast is often a protein shake, made with almond milk, protein powder, and half a banana. This shake provides her with the energy needed for her intensive workouts. Hydration is also a major focus, as she carries a 32-ounce water bottle and aims to refill it at least once throughout the day.
Lunchtime Habits
Lunch is one of Candace's more substantial meals, typically a large, vibrant salad or grain bowl. She makes an effort to vary the ingredients to keep her meals interesting. For instance, a common meal is a kale salad with edamame, quinoa, and other vegetables, dressed with lemon and olive oil. This approach ensures a balanced intake of greens, whole grains, and healthy fats. To boost her protein intake, she often adds a pouch of salmon or tuna.
Snacking and Indulgences
While preferring larger meals over frequent snacking, Candace keeps healthy options on hand for when she needs a boost of energy. Her snack list includes fruits like apples, raw vegetables with hummus, and nuts such as pistachios and almonds. On rare occasions, she enjoys sweet or salty treats, such as her favorite ice cream or french fries, as a form of moderation and balance.
Dinner at Home
Dinner is often a family affair, cooked at home by her husband, Valeri Bure. These meals typically follow the same core principles: lean protein, whole grains, and cooked vegetables. This consistency helps the entire family maintain a healthy eating pattern. When traveling or on set, Candace relies on healthy restaurant choices, like lentil soup or roasted vegetable dishes, to stick to her plan.
Comparison of Candace's Diet vs. General Healthy Eating Guidelines
| Aspect | Candace Cameron Bure's Diet | General Healthy Eating Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Primarily plant-based (nuts, seeds, beans) with lean fish and eggs. | Varied protein sources including lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, and legumes. |
| Dairy Intake | Minimal to none; uses almond or coconut milk. | Moderate dairy consumption is recommended for calcium and vitamin D, but alternatives are fine. |
| Carbohydrates | Emphasizes whole grains like quinoa and oats. | Focus on complex carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. |
| Meal Timing | Intermittent fasting, with her first meal later in the morning. | Regular meal times are generally suggested to maintain steady energy levels. |
| Sugar & Processed Foods | Limits refined sugar and processed foods, except for rare indulgences. | Recommended to minimize intake of added sugars and processed items. |
| Hydration | Drinks large amounts of water and matcha tea. | Emphasizes staying well-hydrated throughout the day. |
Conclusion: The Candace Cameron Bure Approach to Nutrition
Ultimately, Candace Cameron Bure's diet is a sustainable, well-rounded plan that prioritizes whole foods and moderation over strict deprivation. Her success comes from a combination of a plant-forward eating style, strategic timing with intermittent fasting, and consistent exercise, including strength training and walking. Her philosophy isn't about following a fleeting fad, but about making deliberate, healthy choices that leave her feeling energized and strong. By focusing on nutrient-dense foods and enjoying occasional treats, she maintains a healthy lifestyle that is both effective and realistic. Her experience reminds us that a mindful relationship with food and fitness is key to long-term wellness. For more insights into Candace's overall routine, you can explore her collaboration with her trainer Kira Stokes.