Song HyeKyo in amazing swimsuit shape at 40...Thanks to variety of workouts?

Actress Song Hyekyo recently posted a picture of herself in a swimsuit on her social media, along with a wink emoji. In the photo, she is wearing a red striped swimsuit and sitting on a sunbed. Her slender figure and clear skin are striking, making it hard to believe that she is in her 40s.

Previously, Song Hyekyo shared that she maintains her figure and health by following a low-sodium diet, eating in moderation, and exercising regularly. She mentioned, "After I turned 30, I started practicing a low-sodium diet and combined it with exercise. I run every day, do yoga, or take walks in a nearby park when the weather is nice."

The Benefits of a Low-Sodium Diet and Eating in Moderation

Let's take a closer look at the benefits of the low-sodium diet and eating in moderation, which Song Hyekyo considers her secrets.

First, a low-sodium diet is about reducing the intake of salt (sodium). Sodium is important for maintaining the body’s fluid balance and transmitting nerve signals, as well as helping muscles contract. However, excessive sodium intake can raise blood pressure, put strain on the heart and kidneys, and lead to dysfunction. High salt intake can also cause osmotic pressure, resulting in water retention and swelling in the body.

A low-sodium diet is also beneficial for weight management. Sodium is found in foods such as salt, condiments, and processed foods. By avoiding foods high in sodium, people naturally make healthier food choices, which can support weight loss.

When combined with eating in moderation, a low-sodium diet not only helps with weight management but also contributes to longevity. According to a survey by the National Statistical Office, eating in moderation was the number one factor for those who lived over 100 years. Moderation in diet is a common feature of famous "Blue Zones" like Okinawa, where people tend to live longer. Eating less reduces the metabolic rate and minimizes the production of free radicals. Free radicals are substances that can damage DNA and cells, accelerating aging and contributing to diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Be Careful with Excessive Salt Reduction

However, overly restricting sodium intake can lead to fatigue, loss of appetite, and a feeling of lethargy. For people with heart disease or anemia, drastically reducing salt intake may actually worsen their health.

Rather than drastically limiting food intake, it is important to set a reasonable and sustainable target over time. Starting by reducing 10-20% of your usual food intake and adjusting according to your height and weight is a good approach. During this process, it is essential not to restrict specific nutrients. Maintaining a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and vitamins, while eating regularly, is important for overall health.

Running is High-Calorie Burner and Great for Lower Body Muscles

Song Hye-kyo practices running every day, which is a high-calorie burning aerobic exercise. For an adult weighing 70 kg (about 154 lbs), running can burn about 700 kcal per hour, which is significantly higher than activities like swimming (360-500 kcal) or tennis (360-480 kcal). Running is beneficial for fat loss and also helps strengthen lower body muscles like the hips and thighs.

Running is also good for mental health. Running at a heart rate of around 120 beats per minute for 30 minutes can trigger the release of endorphins, the "happiness hormones," which can transform feelings of fatigue into euphoria and happiness. The process of focusing entirely on oneself while running can also reduce feelings of depression.

Yoga is Beneficial for Both Body and Mind

Yoga, which Song Hye-kyo also practices, is beneficial for both physical and mental health. By repeatedly practicing different poses, yoga strengthens muscles and helps with posture correction. The deep breathing and meditation aspects of yoga help reduce stress and calm the mind. Several studies have shown that yoga can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.