Uie, the celebrated singer and actress, has once again caught the public eye by choosing delicious foods that double as effective tools for weight management. Recently, she shared a photo of a lavish spread on her social media, captioned, "Squid sashimi, really?" The meal featured thinly sliced squid sashimi accompanied by ssamjang, garlic, and chili peppers.
Standing 172cm tall and maintaining a weight in the low 50kg range, Uie is widely admired for her healthy and fit physique. On a previous variety show, she demonstrated her commitment to fitness for a boxing competition by reducing her body fat by 2.0kg and increasing her skeletal muscle mass by 1.2kg, achieving a final weight of 50.84kg. Let’s take a look at the benefits and precautions of squid sashimi, the food chosen by Uie to maintain her active lifestyle.
A Low-Calorie, High-Protein Powerhouse
Squid is an ideal diet food because it is low in calories but exceptionally high in protein. A 100g serving of squid contains approximately 15–18g of protein and only 90–100kcal. With a fat content as low as 1–2g, it is an effective choice for those—like Uie—who aim to reduce body fat while preserving lean muscle mass.
Beyond protein, squid is rich in taurine. According to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, taurine supports heart health and vision while helping to alleviate anxiety and stress. Most importantly, squid contains almost no carbohydrates and does not cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. Its chewy texture also promotes prolonged chewing, which increases satiety and prevents overeating.
Watch the Cholesterol and Dipping Sauces
Despite its benefits, squid is relatively high in cholesterol, so it should be consumed in moderation. While the squid itself is lean, the hidden calories and sodium in accompanying sauces can be problematic. Ssamjang, in particular, often contains added sugars that can undermine weight management efforts. Similarly, doenjang is high in sodium, and excessive consumption can lead to bloating.
To enjoy squid sashimi like a pro, it is best to use only a small amount of ssamjang or doenjang. Pairing the sashimi with leafy greens, seaweed, or cucumber can significantly boost its nutritional value. Finally, if you are choosing squid sashimi specifically for weight management, it is advisable to skip the alcohol.
