Jennifer Hudson is to pen a book about her weight loss

The `Dreamgirls` star has shed 80lbs in just under two years and now hopes to "inspire" other people who are struggling with their weight along with opening up about how her unhealthy eating habits began at an early age.

According to E!, a statement from publishers Dutton - who will release the book in January 2012 - said: "Jennifer wants to inspire anyone coping with weight issues, share some of her own best tips for losing and maintaining weight loss, fitting in exercise and keeping it fun."

The memoir will detail Jennifer`s "experience growing up in an environment where healthy living was not a priority," and also touch on her weight issues while she competed in `American Idol`.

Jennifer - who has a 21-month-old son, David Jr., with fiance David Otunga - has previously revealed she still finds it difficult to embrace her new physique.

She said: "I`m still not used to my new self yet, so I`m figuring out who I am right now. Like, how do I want to be perceived? Who am I? Along with a physical change, it is also a mental change, so my mind has to play catch up with what everybody else sees. I haven`t got there yet. I go shopping and pick up an outfit in an extra-large or large. Physically I might be right, but not mentally."

sections: Celebrities