Singer and actress Uie recently revealed that she has been avoiding yakgwa (Korean honey cookies) to maintain her lean physique.
Uie recently shared a photo of mini yakgwa on social media with the caption, “I held back.” For those following her lead in resisting the temptation of this traditional treat, what are the actual health benefits?
A "Medicine-Like Snack"? The History vs. The Reality
The name yakgwa literally implies a "medicine-like snack," but is that reputation still earned today?
Yakgwa is a traditional confection that has been a staple of Korean culture since the Goryeo Dynasty. At the time, it was considered a luxury food because it was made by frying precious ingredients such as wheat flour, honey, and sesame oil. The name originated from the belief that these high-quality ingredients made the cookie as beneficial to the body as medicine.
However, for the modern consumer, yakgwa is far from a health food. Due to its high calorie and sugar content, it can contribute to weight gain and negatively impact blood sugar levels and cardiovascular health. According to nutritional data from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, a single 30g piece of yakgwa contains approximately 120 kcal. Consuming just three pieces can easily exceed 300 kcal—roughly the equivalent of a full bowl of white rice.
Refined Carbs and the Dopamine Trap
The primary ingredient, wheat flour, is a refined carbohydrate that causes a rapid spike in blood sugar. This effect is compounded by the sugar and rice syrup used to create the snack’s signature glaze. The recent trend of "fusion desserts"—pairing yakgwa with cookies or ice cream—only exacerbates the issue, leading to an excessive intake of calories and fat.
Sweet foods like these can also be addictive. Consuming high-sugar snacks triggers the release of dopamine and endorphins, which reinforces cravings and can lead to a cycle of overeating. For those seriously managing their diet, the firm restraint shown by Uie is often necessary to break these addictive patterns.
How to Enjoy Traditionally and Healthily
To enjoy yakgwa without compromising your health goals, it is best to limit portions and treat it as a rare indulgence.
If you find it difficult to avoid the snack entirely, consider looking for baked versions rather than traditional deep-fried varieties to reduce calorie intake. Additionally, choosing products made with alternative sweeteners like allulose instead of rice syrup can help mitigate the impact on your blood sugar.
