Cheryl Burke is glowing—and not just because of the spotlight. The Dancing With the Stars pro has dropped 15 pounds and is showing off a fresh, toned figure. Fans are loving it. But Cheryl’s journey wasn’t about trends or crash diets. It was all about balance, clean food, and being kind to herself.
For years, online trolls called her names. Some even labeled her “fat” (which she never was). That pressure pushed Cheryl to try every diet in the book. She said it left her frustrated and bouncing up and down on the scale. Finally, she said enough is enough.
What Changed Cheryl’s Approach to Food?
Instead of following strict rules, Cheryl decided to ditch dieting for good. No more calorie counting or skipping meals. Instead, she focused on eating smaller portions and choosing foods that made her feel strong and energized.
She cut down on dairy, which helped reduce bloating. But she didn’t give up her favorite dishes either. Cheryl still enjoys the Mexican food she loves. It’s all about moderation and smart choices. “I tried every diet you could think of,” she told Us Weekly. But this time, she found what worked.
What’s in Cheryl Burke’s Go-To Breakfast?
Mornings are important for Cheryl. She starts her day with a protein-packed breakfast—usually egg whites and turkey bacon. Sometimes it’s on a plate, other times wrapped in a tortilla for an easy grab-and-go meal.
Why is this smart? Getting protein early in the day helps you feel full longer. That means less snacking and better focus throughout the day. Cheryl’s not just dancing—she’s fueling her body like an athlete.
What Does Cheryl Eat for Lunch?
When lunch rolls around, Cheryl often goes for a classic Cobb salad. But she swaps the usual bacon for turkey bacon. That small change cuts extra fat while keeping the flavor.
“I get the dressing on the side,” she shared. That way, she can control how much she uses. No drowning her greens here.
The salad often includes avocado, which is full of healthy fats. It’s one of the best ingredients to keep your lunch satisfying and weight-loss friendly.
What’s Cheryl’s Favorite Dinner Option?
By dinner, Cheryl keeps things simple. She often picks up healthy, ready-made meals. One of her go-tos? Lentil soup. Another favorite is a salad with lentils, peppers, and corn—something she might grab from Whole Foods.
These meals are full of fiber and plant-based protein. They keep her full without feeling heavy. Plus, they’re super easy to take with her on busy days.
If she’s out and about, Cheryl looks for healthy options that are fast but still nutritious. It’s all about making the best choice wherever you are.
Is Cheryl Still Enjoying Her Favorite Foods?
Yes! Cheryl didn’t give up her favorite meals. She just learned to enjoy them differently. Mexican food is still part of her life, but in smaller portions. And if she wants something sweet or cheesy, she has it—just not every day.
That mindset shift made a huge difference. No more guilt. Just balance.
What Can We Learn from Cheryl’s Journey?
Cheryl’s weight loss story is refreshing. She didn’t follow a trendy plan or take shortcuts. She focused on:
- Smaller portions
- Clean, minimally processed foods
- Limiting dairy
- Eating protein with every meal
- Listening to her body
And most importantly, she gave up the pressure to be “perfect.” She stopped chasing quick fixes and started honoring what her body really needed.
Can You Follow a Plan Like Cheryl’s?
Absolutely. You don’t need a Hollywood trainer or a private chef. Cheryl’s meal plan is simple and easy to copy at home. Here’s a quick summary to get you started:
Breakfast:
Egg whites + turkey bacon (on a plate or in a wrap)
Lunch:
Cobb salad with turkey bacon, avocado, and dressing on the side
Dinner:
Lentil soup or a salad with lentils, corn, and peppers
Snacks:
Keep it light. Try Greek yogurt, a handful of nuts, or fresh fruit.
And don’t forget—hydrate and move your body. Whether it’s walking, dancing, or yoga, staying active matters just as much as eating right.
Final Thoughts
Cheryl Burke’s 15-pound weight loss didn’t happen overnight. It came from making small, smart changes and sticking with them. She focused on food that fuels, not just food that fits a number.
Her story is a reminder that your journey doesn’t have to be extreme to be effective. If you’re looking for a plan that’s simple, balanced, and realistic—this might be it.
Would you like a sample weekly meal plan inspired by Cheryl’s routine?
