Jennifer Hudson, 37, has become a household name and worked hard for a hugely successful career since winning American Idol 15 years ago. The singer even starred in world-famous movie Dreamgirls alongside Beyoncé – a move which launched her Hollywood career and landed her an Oscar for best supporting actress. Now, Jennifer is a coach on The Voice UK alongside Tom Jones, Olly Murs, and Will.i.am. The glamorous pop star has always looked incredible, but after appearing in Dreamgirls and welcoming her son David, Jennifer has managed to maintain her weight.
Before her role in Dreamgirls, Jennifer had to gain 20 pounds to play her character, and she’d previously lost a whopping 60 pounds before appearing on American Idol – making her total weight loss a whopping 80 pounds (5st 7lb).
But just how did Jennifer lose weight, and how has she stayed in shape?
Throughout her career, Jennifer has dropped from a size 16 to a size six, and she previously told ITV host Lorraine how she managed it.
Instead of exercising regularly, the mother of one focuses on her diet.
She said: “I don’t really have time to do much [working out], so I really just watch what I eat.”
Jennifer added: “I’m very careful and cautious of what I’m eating, so I just try to pace those meals throughout the day.
“Like, okay, eat here, don’t eat here. When it’s early in the morning, I say, okay, I would’ve been asleep … so I’m not going to eat. I’m very conscious of what I put in my body.”
After welcoming her son David in 2009, the singer joined Weight Watchers.
And speaking to Self in 2011, Jennifer spoke about how joining the slimming club changed her relationship with food, explaining: “If you’re on a strict diet that says you shouldn’t have any carbs or this or that, your body won’t function the way it should.
“I know now that I can eat anything I want and still lose or maintain my weight. It’s about portions and balance.”
She also began walking 30 minutes everyday making sure she spent time being active outside, including jogging and cycling.
But now, Jennifer focuses on her diet to stay in shape and became a spokesperson for Weight Watchers as a result.
Her busy lifestyle and energetic performances also ensure she keeps the pounds off.
She still maintains a healthy diet however, and previously revealed to Self what she typically eats on a daily basis:
- Breakfast – one cup of non-fat plain Greek yoghurt with sliced strawberries
- Lunch – grilled chicken salad or a turkey sandwich
- Snacks – 12 baked low fat tortilla chips with two tablespoons of light ranch dressing or one sliced apple with peanut butter
- Dinner – Shrimp stir fry with brown rice and steamed vegetables
Jennifer said she does’t deprive herself of her favourite treats, instead sticking to reasonable portions.
The Voice returns to ITV tonight at 8pm.