The recent passing of vegan influencer Zhanna Samsonova, known as Zhanna D'Art on social media, has cast a somber light on the potential dangers of extreme fad diets. Samsonova, an advocate of raw veganism, tragically passed away at the age of 39 due to complications related to severe protein deficiency and malnutrition.
Zhanna Samsonova was widely recognized for her fervent promotion of raw veganism, a diet primarily composed of uncooked fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods. Her journey into the world of extreme diets began a decade ago, as she embraced a raw plant-based lifestyle that included fruits, sunflower seed sprouts, fruit smoothies, and juices. Her social media presence attracted a following of over 10,000 individuals, intrigued by her commitment to this unconventional approach to nutrition.
However, as Samsonova's posts revealed, her commitment to raw veganism led to severe nutritional deficiencies. Nutritionists and experts have highlighted that such a diet lacks essential macronutrients and micronutrients, including protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin B12.
While raw veganism can offer short-term benefits such as weight loss and improved cholesterol levels, its long-term sustainability is questionable.
The absence of fats in an uncooked diet can hinder the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, E, D, and B12, leading to potential deficiencies. This deficiency can result in various health issues, including anemia, nervous system damage, infertility, and heart disease.
Fad diets are often marketed as a quick and easy way to lose weight, but they can be dangerous to your health.
Extreme fad diets can lead to:
Malnutrition
Eating disorders
Death
Some common fad diets include:
The Atkins diet
The South Beach Diet
The Paleo diet
The Raw Food Diet
The Juice Cleanse
If you are considering following a fad diet, there are a few signs that it may be dangerous. These signs include:
The diet restricts you from eating certain foods or food groups.
The diet requires you to follow strict rules about how and when you eat.
The diet promises quick weight loss.
The diet is marketed as a miracle cure for weight loss or other health problems.
If you see any of these signs, it is best to avoid the diet. There are many healthier and safer ways to lose weight.
If your goal is weight loss, rest assured there exist numerous methods that are both secure and beneficial for your well-being. Below, you'll discover a handful of recommendations:
If your goal is weight loss, rest assured there exist numerous methods that are both secure and beneficial for your well-being. Below, you'll discover a handful of recommendations:
Consult your healthcare provider. Collaborate with your doctor to establish a weight loss strategy that prioritizes your safety and health.
Make gradual adjustments to your eating habits. Avoid attempting drastic changes too hastily, as this could lead to premature discouragement.
Emphasize the consumption of nutritious foods. Incorporate ample portions of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet.
Restrict your consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and unhealthy fats.
Incorporate physical activity. Aim to engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on a majority of the week's days.
While losing weight can pose challenges, it is essential to approach it cautiously and in a manner that suits your sustainability.
The unfortunate passing of Samsonova serves as a poignant reminder that not all social media influencers possess the qualifications to dispense medical guidance. Extreme fad diets can potentially jeopardize your health. If you contemplate adopting a fad diet, it is imperative to initiate a dialogue with your physician or a registered dietitian in advance. Their expertise can assist you in evaluating your health status and ensuring the diet's suitability for your well-being.
Follow the Author on MedBound: Iqra Batool (@iqrabatool)
