Actress Song Hye-kyo recently captured public attention with an unexpected "ramen mukbang."
Song Hye-kyo shared behind-the-scenes photos from her recent schedule in France on her personal social media. Alongside elegant images of her in a gown at a global event, she posted a shot of herself eating cup noodles, revealing a surprisingly relatable and down-to-earth side. Given her reputation for meticulous self-care, the moment sparked significant buzz, with many fans describing the scene as "unexpected."
While celebrity ramen diets have been a topic of discussion for years, it is rare to see a star eating cup noodles during an official schedule—especially while dressed in high-fashion evening wear. This striking contrast has raised curiosity about whether there are specific ways to enjoy ramen while minimizing weight gain.
Skip the broth to reduce sodium and calories
With cup noodles, the broth is where a large portion of the sodium and dissolved fat resides. By leaving the broth behind, one can cut approximately 50 to 100 kcal and significantly reduce sodium intake. This practice is particularly effective in reducing post-meal bloating and water retention.
However, it is important to remember that the noodles themselves account for the majority of the calories. Skipping the broth is a "less harmful choice" rather than a method to transform ramen into a health food. Nevertheless, for those who choose to indulge, reducing broth consumption is a practical way to lessen the nutritional burden.
Blood sugar spikes: The hidden risk of refined carbohydrates
Even if one only consumes the noodles, the meal can still contribute to body fat due to blood sugar spikes. Ramen noodles are primarily composed of refined carbohydrates, which cause a rapid increase in blood glucose levels. In response, the body releases a large amount of insulin, which facilitates the storage of excess energy as fat. This effect is often amplified when ramen is consumed on an empty stomach or late at night. Frequent consumption can lead to increased body fat and a heightened appetite, meaning skipping the broth does not offer total insurance against weight gain.
Adding eggs and vegetables for a balanced meal
The most critical factor when eating ramen is what you pair it with. Incorporating protein—such as a boiled egg, tofu, or chicken breast—can increase satiety and slow the rise of blood sugar. Adding vegetables provides essential dietary fiber, further slowing the absorption of carbohydrates. By using this approach, the same bowl of ramen becomes significantly less taxing on the body. Ultimately, the goal is to "round out" the meal rather than eating the noodles in isolation.
Timing and frequency of consumption
The timing of a ramen meal also affects weight management. Consuming ramen during the day, when physical activity levels are higher, is more favorable for energy expenditure than eating it at night. It is also vital to view ramen as an "occasional indulgence" rather than a regular meal replacement. Treating it as a rare treat is the most realistic way to enjoy the flavor while reducing the likelihood of long-term weight gain.
