Hot Water, Reduced Food Intake: Kerala Girl Dies from Anorexia After Following Extreme Diets

New Delhi: In today’s image-driven society, where looks often seem to define worth, the tragic story of 18-year-old Sree Nanda from Kerala shows the extreme consequences of body image obsession. Nanda, a native of Meruvambai, died while undergoing treatment at Thalassery Co-operative Hospital after battling severe anorexia nervosa. 

For nearly six months, Nanda had severely restricted her food intake, surviving only on hot water. 

She had been following extreme weight-loss diets she found on online platforms. Her health deteriorated rapidly as a result of these extreme measures, leading to her being hospitalized in critical condition 12 days ago.

According to a consultant physician at the hospital, Nanda weighed just 24 kg and was completely bedridden when she arrived. 

Her condition was dire, with dangerously low sugar levels, sodium, and blood pressure. Despite being placed on a ventilator, her health did not improve, and she passed away.

Doctors confirmed Nanda was suffering from anorexia nervosa, a serious eating disorder that causes extreme weight loss, often to the point of starvation. 

What is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is a severe mental health disorder where individuals refuse to maintain a healthy body weight due to an overwhelming fear of gaining weight. 

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, those affected often see themselves as overweight, even when they are dangerously underweight. This disorder is one of the leading causes of death among those with mental illnesses, as it leads to both physical and psychological complications.

Key Features and Risks of Anorexia Nervosa:

- Extreme food restriction: Individuals may avoid entire food groups, obsess over calories, and restrict intake to an unhealthy degree.

- Distorted body image: Despite being severely underweight, they perceive themselves as overweight and are consumed by body image concerns.

- Intense fear of weight gain: This persistent fear drives the restrictive eating behaviors.

The Physical and Psychological Toll:

The physical consequences of anorexia nervosa are severe, including:

- Cardiovascular issues such as low blood pressure, heart irregularities, and potential heart failure.

- Bone health deterioration, leading to conditions like osteoporosis and increased fracture risk.

- Organ failure, particularly affecting the kidneys and other vital organs in severe cases.

Warning Signs of Anorexia Nervosa:

The disorder often develops slowly, with early warning signs including:

- Obsessive concerns about dieting, calories, and body weight.

- Complaints about being “fat” despite being underweight.

- Avoiding social situations and losing interest in previously enjoyed activities.

- Secretive behavior around food, including skipping meals or lying about food intake.

- Rigorous exercise routines and feeling anxiety or embarrassment eating in front of others.