The actress attributed her impressive 17kg weight loss to a unique diet that involved replacing rice with tofu, saying no to a common condiment for years, and consistently following a healthy diet and exercise routine. Song Hye Kyo’s dedication to her health and fitness has helped her maintain her stunning looks, making her a role model for Asian women aspiring for a healthy and beautiful lifestyle.

Not many people know that before becoming the renowned “national beauty treasure” of South Korea, Song Hye Kyo went through a phase where she weighed 70kg.
Losing 17kg by Replacing Rice with Tofu
In an interview, Song Hye Kyo revealed that she successfully lost 17kg by substituting her dinner with tofu. Instead of eating rice, she would have boiled tofu or simple tofu dishes with green vegetables. For the other two meals of the day, she opted for a light and healthy approach, minimizing oil and starch while ensuring she only ate until she was about 80% full.
According to nutrition experts, tofu is an ideal food for weight loss. Every 100g of tofu contains approximately 8g of protein, 2g of carbohydrates, 1g of fiber, and 4g of fat, along with essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and manganese…
The plant-based protein in tofu not only helps one feel fuller for longer but also aids in maintaining muscle mass, ensuring that weight loss doesn’t result in a loss of firmness.
Some tofu-based dishes that can replace rice for dinner include boiled tofu, tofu salad, tofu and mushroom soup, or steamed tofu with shrimp. These preparation methods minimize oil and are perfect for a healthy diet while still providing essential nutrients.
Tofu is a “golden food” for weight loss due to its high plant-based protein content, low-calorie density, and satiating properties. Rich in minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese, tofu not only aids in fat loss but also helps maintain muscle mass, promoting healthy and youthful skin.
WATCH: Song Hye Kyo’s tofu diet and expert advice on the best time to eat tofu for optimal health.
Konjac – Song Hye Kyo’s Trusted “Slimming Rice”
In addition to tofu, Song Hye Kyo incorporated konjac into her diet, a food known as “slimming rice.” During her rapid weight loss journey for the role of Moon Dong Eun in The Glory, she replaced white rice with konjac rice for two months.
Her daily menu consisted of konjac rice with grilled fish and vegetable soup for breakfast and lunch, and boiled tofu for dinner. This dietary approach helped her maintain a frail appearance befitting her character’s thin and weary demeanor.
Research shows that konjac rice is almost devoid of fat, sugar, and gluten, has a low starch content, and is rich in soluble fiber, which promotes a feeling of fullness. Its low glycemic index is beneficial for weight control and preventing fat accumulation. This secret also enabled Song Hye Kyo to lose weight rapidly without compromising her health.
Song Hye Kyo’s daily weight loss menu revolved around tofu, konjac rice, vegetable soup, and grilled fish, a balanced and nutritious approach to healthy weight management.
Drinking 3 Liters of Diluted Lemon Water Daily
Another unique habit that Song Hye Kyo has maintained for years is drinking 3 liters of diluted lemon water every day. She typically squeezes half a lemon into a liter of water and drinks it throughout the day.
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, citric acid, and antioxidants, which help detoxify the body, promote fat metabolism, brighten the skin, and reduce wrinkles. Drinking lemon water also helps maintain skin hydration, contributing to Song Hye Kyo’s radiant and smooth complexion.
Experts advise that drinking diluted lemon water instead of concentrated lemon juice reduces the risk of stomach irritation while enhancing nutrient absorption. This simple habit can easily be incorporated into daily routines for improved health and well-being.
Lemon water, packed with vitamin C, citric acid, and antioxidants, effectively detoxifies the body, boosts metabolism, and aids in weight loss. Regular consumption also brightens the skin, reduces wrinkles, and maintains natural moisture, resulting in glowing skin and energized body.
Saying No to Salt for Years
Another distinctive aspect of Song Hye Kyo’s diet is her minimal salt intake. She strives to preserve the original flavors of her food, using minimal seasonings to avoid water retention and its adverse effects on her figure.
Research indicates that excessive salt intake can lead to high blood pressure, water retention, and a “puffy” appearance. Reducing salt intake not only aids in weight management but also benefits heart health, kidney function, and slows down the aging process.
Song Hye Kyo has shared that she chooses to “eat for health” rather than pleasure, which means saying no to sugary and high-calorie snacks and focusing on nutritious foods like vegetables, grilled fish, salads, tofu, and konjac.
Consistent Exercise – The Key to Sustained Fitness
Despite her busy schedule, Song Hye Kyo ensures she exercises for at least 15 minutes every day. She opts for simple yet effective routines like yoga, brisk walking, and pilates to maintain her flexibility and health. This active lifestyle, combined with a healthy diet, has helped her not only maintain her figure but also boost her overall health and mental well-being.
Experts emphasize that daily physical activity is crucial for burning excess fat, building muscle, and enhancing metabolism. Song Hye Kyo’s consistent exercise routine, coupled with a low-salt and vegetable-rich diet, is the key to her enduring beauty and fitness throughout the years.
Song Hye Kyo’s disciplined lifestyle has resulted in her maintaining a radiant, smooth complexion, a well-toned body, and an elegant aura. She represents not just Korean beauty but also serves as an inspiration for Asian women aspiring to embrace a healthy and sustainable lifestyle, focusing on both physical and mental well-being.