Jennifer Hudson has shrunk from a size 18 to a size 8 through eating a healthier diet and exercising in her ladies fitness clothing.

The former American Idol contestant gave birth to her son last August but has had to lose her excess weight for her next film role as Winnie Mandela, People magazine reports.

She said that she was willing to do anything to "morph into a character".

The 28-year-old enlisted personal trainer Harley Pasternak to help her shed weight through exercise.

She also learned about healthy eating and portion control by following a Weight Watcher's diet plan.

"I'm in the best shape of my life," she told the magazine.

Coronation Street's Samia Smith, who plays Maria Connor in the ITV soap, was also quick to lose her post-baby weight.

The star shed two stone in the three months after giving birth to her and husband Matt's daughter Freya.

Posted by Martin Sebborn ADNFCR-2569-ID-19800580-ADNFCR

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