Doctor warns against fasting after Chuseok weight gain

A Korea University Anam Hospital obesity specialist advised people not to rely on fasting or other drastic steps to lose weight gained during Chuseok, The Korea Times reported.

The Korea Times reported that weight increases after the holiday may reflect water retention and undigested food as well as fat, making a return to regular eating and activity more important than a quick drop on the scale.

Kwon Young-geun, professor at the Obesity and Metabolism Center at Korea University Anam Hospital, told The Korea Times that people should avoid sharp swings in eating before and after Chuseok.

"There is no need to repeatedly adjust your weight by fasting before and after the holiday, either to avoid Chuseok food staples altogether or out of guilt over eating too much," Kwon said in an interview on Wednesday, ahead of the Chuseok holiday.

The Korea Times reported that high carbohydrate intake can cause excess glucose to be stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles, which can lead to water retention. Salty foods can also contribute to water retention, the article said.

Kwon said the focus should be on a steady return to normal habits rather than compensating for holiday meals. "The priority is to naturally return to your usual eating and activity patterns after the holiday," Kwon said.

The article recommended serving only the amount of holiday food a person intends to eat, rather than putting large portions on a plate. It also advised including vegetables and protein-rich foods, reducing snacks and desserts, walking with family after meals and combining enough protein with strength training to help preserve muscle mass during weight loss.

The Korea Times reported that long-term healthy eating and consistent exercise are more important than trying to quickly reverse holiday weight gain.