SHINee’s Onew recently opened up about the dangerous reality of his past struggle with sugar addiction and the toll it took on his body. During an appearance on the YouTube channel Saego_F5, Onew reminisced with long-time friend Choi Chang-min about his former dietary habits.
“I really loved sweet things,” Onew admitted. “I used to think that if I only ate sweets, I could lose weight—I even thought I could survive on just cake.” However, the singer revealed that this approach led to a severe decline in his physical well-being. Chang-min added that he was "genuinely worried" during Onew’s rapid weight loss period in 2023, describing the situation as "dangerous."
Onew, who took a health-related hiatus following SHINee's 8th album HARD, has since returned with a healthier perspective. Now promoting his 5th mini-album TOUGH LOVE, he emphasizes a balanced approach combining consistent exercise with a nutritious diet.
Can You Really Lose Weight by Only Eating Cake?
Among young adults, the "dessert-as-a-meal" trend is a growing concern. While Onew’s experience shows that a calorie deficiency from eating only sweets might cause short-term weight loss, it is a path to malnutrition rather than health.
A sugar-centric diet lacks the essential protein, vitamins, and minerals required for bodily function. This imbalance leads to rapid muscle loss, chronic fatigue, and a weakened immune system. What may look like a "slim" figure on the outside is often a body struggling with severe internal nutrient depletion.
The Medical Risks of Sugar Addiction
Excessive sugar intake is a primary driver of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Consider these findings:
Heart Disease: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that excessive sugar can triple the risk of death from heart disease.
Diabetes: Harvard University research indicates that just one or two sugary servings a day can increase diabetes risk by 26%.
Neurological Impact: The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that failing to limit "free sugars" to less than 5% of total daily energy (about 25g or 6 teaspoons for a 2000 kcal diet) can lead to long-term neurological issues, including dementia.
Furthermore, sugar triggers dopamine spikes in the brain, creating an addictive cycle. The resulting blood sugar "swings" can intensify symptoms of anxiety and depression, while insulin resistance increases the likelihood of fatty liver disease.
How to Break the Cycle of Sugar Cravings
Overcoming an addiction to sweets requires gradual habit changes and a shift in mindset. If you are struggling with intense sugar cravings, experts suggest the following strategies:
Prioritize Protein: Start your morning with protein-rich foods like eggs, cheese, or low-fat milk. This stabilizes blood sugar and can reduce daily sweet cravings by approximately 30%.
Adjust Your Eating Order: Eat fiber-rich vegetables first to slow sugar absorption.
Find Better Stress Relievers: Instead of reaching for a snack when stressed, go for a walk in the sunlight. This increases serotonin, which naturally improves mood and stabilizes blood sugar.
Smart Substitutions: Replace sugary desserts with nuts, sugar-free gum, or low-sugar fruits.
If you practice these methods for just one to two weeks, the brain's dopamine-driven cravings will begin to subside, leading to easier long-term weight and blood sugar management.
