There is a reason IU’s clear, luminous skin continues to stand out well into her 30s. On a recent appearance on the YouTube channel Fate Is Just an Excuse, IU shared the personal morning routine that keeps her glowing.
“In the morning, I pack an apple and blueberries and eat them,” she revealed, adding that even on busy filming days, she maintains the habit of eating fruit first on an empty stomach. She emphasized that this is a deliberate part of her day: “I eat a whole apple—every bit of it.” By pairing these fruits with nuts, IU creates a balanced combination of healthy fats, antioxidants, and dietary fiber that supports both her skin and her overall condition.
Apples: The "Core" of Morning Skin Care
Apples are high in water and fiber, making them an ideal choice for an empty stomach. They help replenish fluids lost overnight and stimulate intestinal movement, promoting regularity.
Crucially, apples contain pectin, which supports a healthy gut environment. A well-functioning digestive system is often associated with clearer skin and fewer breakouts. Furthermore, the antioxidants found in apple peels help combat oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and fine dust, protecting the skin from external irritants and maintaining a clear skin tone.
Blueberries: An Antioxidant Shield Against Aging
Widely recognized for their high concentration of anthocyanins, blueberries are a premier "superfood" for slowing the visible signs of aging. They help neutralize reactive oxygen species, which are major contributors to wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity.
Consuming blueberries on an empty stomach may lead to more efficient absorption of these antioxidants. This dietary choice is particularly beneficial during seasonal transitions when the skin is more prone to looking dull or tired.
Nuts: Healthy Fats for a Natural Glow
Nuts provide the essential unsaturated fatty acids necessary for maintaining a strong skin barrier. For the skin to retain moisture and block external irritants, it requires an adequate level of healthy fats, which nuts provide.
Beyond direct skin benefits, eating nuts alongside fruit helps blunt potential blood sugar spikes. Stable blood sugar levels are key to reducing systemic inflammation, a common factor in various skin troubles. By combining fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, IU’s routine offers a comprehensive internal approach to external beauty.
