Actress Han Groo, 33 years old, who garnered attention after successfully losing 18 kg post-childbirth, recently revealed her secret to maintaining a healthy physique without resorting to starvation. On Instagram, Han Groo shared that she has recently realized that focusing on overall physical well-being is far more important than managing weight solely through fasting.

"I try to eat green vegetables as often as possible, and even when I cannot go to the gym, I still make an effort to stay active with activities like walking or stretching," the actress said.

However, Han Groo admitted that maintaining this routine is challenging, as her meal times often become irregular due to filming schedules. She typically manages post-meal bloating by using convenient enzyme supplements that are easy to carry in her handbag, according to Nate.

Actress Han Groo poses on the red carpet at the KBS Drama Awards 2025 on 31/12/2025 in Yeongdeungpo district, Seoul. Photo: News1

Previously, restricting food intake for weight loss was a common trend. However, medical professionals recently warned that such extreme fasting methods can damage the digestive system and even predispose the body to weight gain. Excessive caloric restriction for rapid weight loss slows down bowel motility, leading to constipation, bloating, and an imbalance in gut microbiota.

When food is not fully broken down and remains in the intestines, harmful bacteria can thrive, impairing digestive health. More dangerously, this condition can increase inflammation or cause insulin resistance, thereby creating a predisposition to weight gain. In these situations, enzyme supplementation offers distinct benefits.

Enzymes are protein catalysts that help break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats we consume, thereby aiding nutrient absorption and promoting waste elimination. According to US health website Healthline, if the body lacks digestive enzymes, nutrients will not be properly absorbed and will be wasted, regardless of how nutritious the diet is. Specifically, a deficiency in metabolic enzymes can lead to various uncomfortable digestive symptoms such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Healthline explains that digestive enzymes in the body are classified into amylase (breaks down carbohydrates), lipase (breaks down fats), and protease (breaks down proteins). These enzymes must function normally for nutrients to be absorbed into the bloodstream through the small intestinal wall and utilized for the body's overall metabolism.

However, some individuals may not experience noticeable benefits from conventional enzyme products because their activity can be easily diminished by stomach acid or temperature. In such cases, consumers should choose encapsulated enzyme supplements, which use special coating technology to protect enzymes, ensuring they safely reach the intestines. Once enzymes reach the intestines and function normally, they bring positive changes in food breakdown, nutrient absorption, and improved balance of gut microbiota. With improved gut function, post-meal bloating symptoms are also reduced.

Experts note that while enzymes play an active role in digestive and gut health, they should not be mistaken for a "miracle drug" for weight loss. Enzymes primarily aid digestion and do not directly burn body fat. Furthermore, to clearly feel the effects of food breakdown, users should take enzymes immediately before or during meals. Additionally, excessive enzyme consumption can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Since the product may not suit everyone depending on their body type, adhering to recommended dosages is crucial. Moreover, using enzymes alone cannot guarantee successful weight loss.

For a healthy diet, lifestyle management must go hand in hand. Limiting spicy, greasy foods and increasing fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains will improve gut health and promote regular bowel movements. Additionally, consistently combining strength training with aerobic exercise can help minimize muscle loss, positively impacting the maintenance of basal metabolic rate, thereby supporting effective long-term weight management.

Actress and singer Han Groo was born in Namyangju city, Gyeonggi province, Korea. She officially debuted in the entertainment industry as a solo singer in 2011 with her debut album titled Groo One. Just a few months later, Han Groo ventured into acting with an impressive debut in the thriller Killer K. Since then, the actress has continuously appeared in works such as Can We Get Married? and Marriage, Not Dating, most recently Cinderella Game. She is currently divorced and a single mother of twins.

Binh Minh (According to Chosun)