On Sunday (March 9), 18-year-old Sreenanda from Kerala's Kannur passed away after struggling with the severe eating disorder Anorexia Nervosa which developed following an intense water diet for six months
As the name suggests, a water diet involves solely surviving on water for 24-72 hours, abstaining from all types of food
People usually follow this diet as a method of weight loss, a complete body detox, or for religious reasons
While the diet is beneficial in its quick results and breaking down of old cells that could cause heart disease and Alzheimer's (autophagy), it can have severe adverse effects, especially if not practiced under medical supervision
Yes, consuming only water can cause dehydration. This is because the food we eat contains water content that makes up 20-30% of our water intake throughout the day
Skipping a meal and relying only on water may cause a drop in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension) causing fatigue and light-headedness. It is advised to avoid operating machinery in such cases
Water fasting can drop sodium levels to abnormal levels (hyponatremia), leading to lethargy, nausea, headache, and fatigue
The quick results from water diets can negatively affect a person, making them adopt the new lifestyle which can tragically weaken their body
Experts recommend that those with pre-existing kidney disease, pregnant women, individuals with type 1 diabetes, and those with pre-existing eating disorders should avoid this diet