The Drink IU Swears by for Weight Gain—Not as ‘Healthy’ as It Seems

Singer and actress IU (31), known for her slender figure, has openly shared her go-to drink—but it’s far from a diet-friendly choice.

During her appearance on BTS Suga’s YouTube show Suchwita, IU surprised viewers by bringing misutgaru, a Korean grain powder drink. She revealed that whenever she needs to gain weight quickly, she drinks it, claiming, “It makes me gain weight instantly, but it’s so delicious that I can’t stop.”

Suga also recalled childhood memories of his mother making misutgaru for him when he skipped breakfast before school.

While misutgaru has a reputation as a nutritious drink, it may not be the best choice for those watching their weight.

Why Misutgaru Can Lead to Weight Gain

Made from a blend of grains such as brown rice, barley, soybeans, and black beans, misutgaru is often mixed with water or milk for a quick and convenient meal. However, consuming it too quickly can lead to weight gain and even increase the risk of diabetes.

Since misutgaru is absorbed rapidly by the body, it causes a sharp spike in blood sugar levels. This triggers the release of insulin, which then leads to a sudden drop in blood sugar, resulting in extreme hunger and potential overeating. Additionally, the brain takes about 20 minutes to register fullness, meaning you might feel hungry again before realizing you've consumed enough.

Drinking misutgaru instead of chewing solid foods also prevents the production of amylase, an enzyme in saliva that aids digestion. This can increase the risk of gastritis and other digestive issues.

Many people enhance misutgaru’s flavor with sugar, honey, or other sweeteners, but this can contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, and poor gut health. Instead of adding sugar, chewing the grains thoroughly allows the natural starches to break down into a mild sweetness.

While misutgaru is a comforting and nostalgic drink, those looking to manage their weight may want to consume it in moderation—or at least take the time to savor each sip.