Kerala Teen Dies After Following Extreme YouTube Water Diet; Doctor Highlights Fatal Flaws
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Kannur, Kerala: The tragic death of an 18-year-old girl in Kerala has raised concerns over the dangers of following unverified diet plans found online. Sreenanda, a resident of Koothuparamba, succumbed to severe health complications after adhering to an extreme weight-loss regimen that primarily consisted of water. She was placed on a ventilator at Thalassery Co-operative Hospital for several days before passing away.
Dr. Nagesh Prabhu, the physician who treated her, revealed that she was suffering from anorexia nervosa, a severe eating disorder characterized by an extreme fear of gaining weight. “She was almost starving and was on a water diet. I believe her disordered eating began about six months ago. A colleague had advised her family to seek medical help, but they downplayed the seriousness of the condition,” Dr. Prabhu stated. He also noted that while anorexia nervosa is prevalent in Western countries, it remains relatively uncommon in Kerala.
Understanding Anorexia Nervosa
Dr. Prabhu explained that individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa gradually lose their sense of hunger. According to the Mayo Clinic, the exact causes of anorexia remain unknown but are believed to be influenced by a combination of psychological, genetic, and environmental factors. The disorder can affect individuals of any gender, race, age, or body type. In Sreenanda’s case, her sodium and sugar levels had dropped to dangerously low levels and continued to decline despite medical intervention.
Psychological Aspects and Treatment
Emphasizing the psychological dimension of anorexia, Dr. Prabhu stated that Sreenanda could have benefited from psychiatric treatment at an earlier stage. The Cleveland Clinic notes that treatment for eating disorders typically involves psychotherapy, medication, nutritional counseling, and regular therapy sessions. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
While recovery is possible with timely intervention, the process is often lengthy and requires consistent adherence to a structured treatment plan. Patients may experience fluctuations in their condition, but persistence and proper medical guidance are crucial for recovery.
Sreenanda’s tragic case serves as a stark warning about the risks of blindly following unverified health advice online. Experts urge individuals struggling with eating disorders to seek professional help rather than relying on unregulated diet trends promoted on social media platforms.
