Jeon Soyeon, leader of the group (G)I-DLE, recently revealed the extremely small portions she consumes to maintain her weight. Having previously drawn attention for staying at 44 kg even during her off-season, her latest post has sparked both curiosity and concern.
Jeon Soyeon uploaded a photo to social media showing what appeared to be a single meal: a small portion of rice, one piece of broccoli, and two slices of apple. The post offered a glimpse into how she maintains her "bone-skinny" figure, but fans quickly expressed worry regarding the potential impact of such low food intake on her health.
Severe Calorie Restriction: The Risk of Plateaus and Rebound Weight Gain
The meal shared by Jeon Soyeon is estimated to be roughly 100–150 kcal, a figure far below basal metabolic needs and the energy required for daily activities. While such excessive restriction may cause short-term weight loss, long-term adherence can lead to muscle loss and a significantly lowered basal metabolic rate. This often causes weight loss to stall and increases the likelihood of rebound weight gain once normal eating resumes.
A major concern with this specific meal is the near-total absence of protein and essential fatty acids. Insufficient protein intake accelerates muscle loss, reduces skin elasticity, and contributes to chronic fatigue. Dietary fat is also necessary—even during weight loss—for hormonal balance and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Health experts recommend balancing macronutrients and structuring meals to contain at least 300–500 kcal each.
The Importance of High-Quality Nutrients
To achieve a healthier balance, experts suggest adding protein sources such as hard-boiled eggs, chicken breast, tofu, or Greek yogurt to such a meal. Including healthy fats, such as nuts or olive oil, can also improve satiety and support metabolic function.
Rather than eliminating carbohydrates, it is ideal to choose unrefined options like multigrain rice or sweet potatoes over refined white rice. Expanding vegetable intake beyond broccoli to include a variety of colors ensures a wider range of fiber and micronutrients.
Sustained, extremely low caloric intake can lead to dizziness, reduced concentration, constipation, hair loss, and decreased immunity. Furthermore, when the basal metabolic rate drops, the body becomes more efficient at storing fat, meaning even a small increase in food intake can lead to rapid weight gain. For those focused on sustainable weight management, caution and nutritional balance remain the highest priorities.
