Cher's Plant-Based Philosophy: A Long-Term Commitment
For decades, the "Goddess of Pop" has maintained an impressive level of fitness and vitality, a testament to her disciplined approach to health. A cornerstone of this regimen is her diet, which she has fine-tuned over many years. Her primary approach is a plant-based, vegetarian diet, actively avoiding ham and red meat, which she has stated make her feel sluggish. Cher's food choices prioritize nutrient-rich options that fuel her demanding performance schedule, focusing on complex carbohydrates and whole foods.
Why Cher Avoids Dairy and Red Meat
One of the most notable aspects of Cher's diet is her avoidance of dairy products. In her 1991 book, she explained that she views cheese as one of the worst foods for the body, citing its high fat and cholesterol content and poor digestibility. She gradually transitioned from whole milk to nonfat milk before largely cutting it out entirely. Her diet's low-fat emphasis is a direct result of her discovery that high-fat foods cause her to feel sluggish and gain weight. Her vegetarianism is based on a personal preference and a belief in the health benefits of a meat-free diet, reflecting her understanding of how different foods affect her body and energy levels.
The Energy-Giving Foods in Cher's Kitchen
Instead of relying on animal proteins, Cher loads up on a variety of whole, plant-based foods to maintain her energy. Based on her book and various interviews, a list of her staple foods includes:
- Legumes: Cher relies on legumes such as lentils, pinto beans, and kidney beans for slow-burning protein and complex carbohydrates.
- Brown Rice and Pastas: She includes brown rice and pasta, preferring them over their refined white counterparts for sustained energy for her performances.
- Vegetables: Vegetables are a constant in her diet. She has famously recounted a time on a movie set when she and Michelle Pfeiffer became fans of microwaved sweet potatoes, a simple and healthy snack option.
- Fruits: For a sweet treat, Cher turns to fruits like bananas, papaya, and nectarines, noting that these provide natural sugar for energy.
Cher's Diet vs. A Standard Diet
| Aspect | Cher's Plant-Based Diet | Typical Western Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Meat | Excludes red meat and ham, primarily vegetarian. | Includes significant amounts of red and processed meat. |
| Dairy | Avoids cheese and opts for nonfat milk sparingly, prioritizing dairy-free. | Often includes high consumption of various cheeses, milk, and butter. |
| Whole Grains | Prefers brown rice, whole-grain pastas, and other unrefined complex carbs. | High in refined grains like white bread and white pasta, which cause energy crashes. |
| Energy Source | Sustained energy from complex carbohydrates and legumes. | Energy often comes from high-sugar, processed foods, leading to crashes. |
| Healthy Fats | Incorporates healthy fats from nuts and legumes. | Often contains high amounts of saturated and trans fats. |
| Habits | Avoids smoking, rarely consumes alcohol or coffee. | Smoking, regular alcohol consumption, and high coffee intake are common. |
A Disciplined Lifestyle Beyond the Plate
While her diet is a critical component of her health, Cher's lifestyle is comprehensive. She avoids smoking, rarely drinks alcohol, and stays away from coffee and drugs. Combined with a consistent and rigorous exercise routine, these choices have created a powerful formula for aging with grace and strength. She has admitted to having binges on junk food in the past but learned to prioritize healthier choices over time. Her overall philosophy aligns with principles of the "Harvard diet," emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins.
Conclusion
To answer the question of what does Cher eat every day, the key is a comprehensive, long-term strategy. Her vegetarian and dairy-free diet, rich in whole foods, legumes, and energy-providing fruits, is the foundation of her wellness plan. This, combined with regular exercise and the avoidance of harmful habits, demonstrates that sustaining health is about consistent, informed choices, not fleeting trends. This commitment allows her to maintain the incredible energy required to be a performing artist and remain a vibrant icon well into her later years.
