The passing of Zhanna Samsonova, a popular vegan influencer, has drawn attention to a unique and extreme diet known as fruitarianism. This diet revolves around consuming raw fruits such as apples, bananas, and strawberries, with the option to supplement with vegetables and seeds. Zhanna, also known as Zhanna D’Art, was living in South-East Asia and reportedly died from a cholera-like infection exacerbated by exhaustion caused by her vegan diet.
In addition to her veganism, Zhanna practiced “dry fasting,” which involved abstaining from food and drink for extended periods of time. When she did eat, her diet consisted solely of raw fruits, sunflower seed sprouts, fruit smoothies, and juices. This strict regimen had been maintained for five years.
Diets that eliminate entire food groups have become popular recently, with celebrities jumping on the no-carb or zero-sugar bandwagon. Social media platforms have been flooded with videos and posts praising the benefits of fruitarianism, which emphasizes a raw food diet consisting mainly of fruits.
The definition of fruitarianism can vary, but it generally involves consuming between 55% to 75% raw fruit, with some individuals incorporating nuts, seeds, and grains. Proponents of fruitarianism claim that this diet aids in digestion, hydration, cognitive function, and even detoxification.
Fruitarianism falls under the broader category of raw veganism, completely excluding meat and animal products. However, there is flexibility among followers of this diet, with some incorporating grains, nuts, and oils. Surprisingly, foods like tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, and avocado, typically considered vegetables, are actually fruits and may be consumed by fruitarians. Avocados, for example, contribute to fat intake, while nuts and seeds provide protein.
Notable figures, such as the late Apple CEO Steve Jobs and actor Ashton Kutcher, have experimented with fruitarianism. Steve Jobs claimed that it fueled his creativity, while Ashton Kutcher tried the diet for a month but ended up hospitalized.
While fruit is undoubtedly nutritious, relying solely on it can lead to certain health dangers. A low-calorie diet of mainly raw fruits may result in initial weight loss, but long-term calorie deficiency causes the body to break down muscle tissue for energy. Additionally, fruit lacks protein, which is essential for wound healing, nerve function, and digestion. Inadequate nutrition can lead to conditions like pancreatitis and decreased blood cell count. On the other hand, excessive consumption of high-calorie fruits like avocados can lead to unintended weight gain.
One risk of fruitarianism is its impact on teeth. Fruits contain natural sugars that can contribute to tooth decay. Acidic fruits like apples and oranges can erode tooth enamel. Excessive sugar intake can also impair collagen production and negatively affect the skin’s appearance.
While fruits offer some vitamins, a diet predominantly reliant on them may result in nutrient deficiencies, including iron, calcium, vitamins B and D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. These deficiencies can lead to conditions such as osteomalacia and anemia, resulting in weak bones and a compromised immune system.
Fruitarians may also experience bowel discomfort and irregularity. While fruits are high in soluble fiber, which aids in digestion, excessive fiber intake can cause diarrhea, bloating, and excessive flatulence. It is important to consume enough fluids to prevent dehydration when following a high-fiber diet.
To conclude, fruitarianism is an extreme diet that may pose risks to overall health and well-being. While it offers some benefits, such as hydration and improved digestion, it is essential to carefully monitor nutrient intake and ensure a well-balanced diet to prevent deficiencies and potential health complications.
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