Cha Joo-young on Gaining 6kg Fast: 'I Love Carbs, and Song Hye-kyo Is Too Beautiful!'

On the March 16 episode of TV Chosun’s Gourmet Heo Young-man’s Food Travel, actress Cha Joo-young appeared as a guest and shared her struggles with weight fluctuations.

During the show, she enjoyed 'dongji patjuk' (winter solstice red bean porridge) with cartoonist Heo Young-man in Hampyeong. Cha revealed, "I love carbs so much that my nickname is Rice Cake Lover.”

When Heo asked, "If you love carbs, doesn't that make it hard to manage your weight?", Cha candidly responded, "I gained a lot of weight for drama The Glory, and I haven't been able to fully return to my previous weight since then."

She explained, "For The Glory, I gained about 5–6kg in a short period and had to maintain it throughout filming." Rapid weight changes can have various aftereffects on the body, making proper management crucial.

Meanwhile, Cha Joo-young and Song Hye-kyo’s connection from The Glory continues. The two actresses have become supportive of each other’s work, exchanging compliments along the way.

During the show, Heo Young-man, who had watched The Glory, remarked that seeing Cha Joo-young reminded him of Song Hye-kyo. In response, Cha humbly replied, "No, not at all. She's truly beautiful."

Potential Aftereffects of Rapid Weight Gain

1. Hormonal Imbalance

Sudden weight gain can disrupt hormonal balance, affecting insulin levels and thyroid hormones. This may lead to not only weight issues but also symptoms like fatigue and depression.

2. Digestive Problems

A rapid increase in weight can strain the digestive system. Excessive fat intake and high-calorie foods may cause indigestion, constipation, or acid reflux.

3. Psychological Impact

Sudden weight gain can take a toll on mental health, leading to lowered self-esteem, stress, or depression. This may trigger overeating, creating a vicious cycle.

How to Manage Weight in a Healthy Way

If you experience rapid weight gain like Cha Joo-young, rather than resorting to extreme dieting, a gradual approach is recommended.

Balanced Diet

Instead of severely restricting calories, focus on a well-balanced diet. Prioritize lean proteins, fiber-rich vegetables, and fruits to ensure proper nutrition.

Regular Exercise

Combining cardio and strength training is key to effective weight management. Activities like walking, running, or cycling help burn calories, while strength training increases muscle mass, boosting metabolism in the long run.

Adequate Rest & Sleep

Sleep plays a vital role in weight control. Lack of sleep increases cortisol levels (the stress hormone), which can lead to overeating. Ensuring sufficient rest is crucial for maintaining a healthy body.

Stress Management

Stress from sudden weight changes can negatively impact overall well-being. Practicing meditation, yoga, or engaging in hobbies can help maintain emotional balance and support healthy weight management.