KOCHI: Health experts say that losing weight by following YouTube videos can be life-threatening. The latest death in this series is that of Sreenanda (18), a first-year graduate student from Koothuparamba, who died in Kannur the other day. Sreenanda had been drinking only water and avoiding food. Due to this, her esophagus and stomach shrank.

Many people prepare their own diet based on the number of viewers and comments on the video. Experts point out that one should check and control one's food intake as per the instructions of a certified dietician and nutritionist only.

Specific according to individual

A person's diet is unique to him. Height, weight, how much protein and calories are needed, etc. should be checked, along with other tests. Health conditions should also be considered. Powders and medicines banned in foreign countries are widespread in Kerala as part of dieting. Many people have sought treatment for kidney and liver problems due to these.

Don't fall for advertisements

• First decide whether you want a diet
• Don't fall for advertisements and polished talk
• The number of viewers, comments, and likes are not the criteria for a diet
• The diet should be decided after tests
• Don't promote your own diet

YouTube is not the criteria for diet and treatment. Expert examination is essential.

Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan

Convenor, Research Cell

IMA, Kerala

The number of people who have health problems after following YouTube diets has increased.

Rehana Rajan

Senior Clinical Dietitian

Aster Medcity

Diet should be determined by knowing the body's bio-chemical structure (metabolism)

Dr. Soni Joseph

Senior Consultant Physician

Medical Center, Ernakulam

Diet should be taken after knowing the body only. Medical tests should be ensured.

Manju P. George

Chief Dietitian

Lakeshore Hospital, Kochi