IU has once again captured public attention for her distinctive eating habits. During a recent appearance on the YouTube channel Yoo In Radio, she shared a relaxed conversation with her close friend Yoo In-na regarding her diet. When Yoo In-na joked, “What kind of birdseed were you pecking at today?” IU replied, “Today I ate an apple and blueberries.” While the exchange was lighthearted, it highlighted her reputation for maintaining a very small food intake.
IU reportedly maintains a body weight of approximately 44 kg. Beyond simply choosing small portions, she previously revealed on another channel, “I think I chew about 150 times when I eat.” This habit of chewing slowly and thoroughly appears to be a key factor in her ability to naturally reduce intake and maintain her figure.
Apples and Blueberries: High Satiety with Small Portions
The foods IU mentioned are simple yet strategic. Apples are high in water and dietary fiber, which adds volume to the stomach and extends the feeling of fullness. Blueberries provide a burst of flavor and satisfaction with a relatively low sugar load.
By establishing a pattern of small portions paired with high-satiety foods, total calorie intake can be reduced naturally. This approach focuses on choosing satisfying options rather than forcing oneself to endure hunger, making it a more sustainable strategy for long-term weight maintenance.
The 150-Chew Rule: A Habit That Regulates Speed
The 150-chew habit mentioned by IU far exceeds standard eating patterns. While health experts typically suggest 20–30 chews per bite, IU's method significantly extends the duration of a meal.
Increasing the number of chews slows the pace of eating, allowing the body to register satisfaction with a smaller amount of food. This pattern effectively reduces the likelihood of overeating and helps the brain process satiety signals before the meal is finished.
Satiety as a Race Against Time
The body does not feel full immediately upon eating; it takes time for satiety signals to reach the brain. If a person eats too quickly, they may consume more than necessary before those signals are triggered. Conversely, chewing slowly ensures that fullness is felt sooner. Furthermore, thorough chewing breaks food down more effectively, reducing the digestive burden and helping to prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar. Ultimately, weight management is determined not just by how much one eats, but by how one eats.
A Realistic Guideline: Moderation in Chewing
While IU's habit is effective for her, experts caution that chewing 150 times per bite may be unrealistic for most. Excessive chewing can strain the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or contribute to tooth wear. A more practical goal is to aim for 20–30 chews per bite. What matters most is not the exact number, but the intentional effort to control eating speed. Simply breaking the habit of rushing through meals can be a powerful tool for healthier weight management.
