Extreme Weight-Loss Trend Leaves Woman With Severe Brain Disorder
What Happened
A 31-year-old woman in China lost around 20 kg after reportedly surviving on a water-only diet for 15 days, but was later diagnosed with Wernicke's encephalopathy, a serious brain disorder linked to severe vitamin B1 deficiency. Doctors said she developed memory problems, balance issues and a "penguin-like" walking pattern that could be permanent.
Key Takeaways
The case highlights the risks of the growing trend of rapid weight-loss diets and prolonged fasting without medical supervision. While social media often promotes dramatic transformations, health experts warn that extreme dieting can lead to severe nutritional deficiencies, neurological damage and other long-term health complications.