19-year-old Kerala girl dies after extreme fasting to lose weight

 19-year-old Kerala girl dies after extreme fasting to lose weight

KOZHIKODE: A 19-year-old woman from Meruvambayi in Kerala’s Kannur lost her life after months of extreme “water fasting’ regimen, influenced by weight loss advice dished out online. She had abstained from food for nearly a year and had been surviving mainly on water.

Doctors said the death resulted from complications arising from anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder with mental, behavioural and physical symptoms, including fear of gaining weight.

Sreenanda, a 1st year degree student, was undergoing treatment at Thalassery Cooperative Hospital for the past 10 days. She had been put on ventilator support four days before she died Saturday. Dr Nagesh Prabhu, who treated her, said Sreenanda was bedridden and extremely underweight when she was brought to the hospital

Kerala girl weighing 'hardly 24 kg' dies of extreme dieting: What is anorexia nervosa? Everything you need to know

By

Sanya Panwar

Mar 11, 2025 01:15 PM IST

Doctors say the 18-year-old girl was anorexic and reportedly surviving on water after following an online weight loss diet. Here's everything you need to know.

An 18-year-old girl from Kerala, Sree Nanda, suffering from the eating disorder anorexia died on Sunday at a Thalassery hospital where she was undergoing treatment after she abstained from proper food for almost six months, as per ANI. The news agency added she used to follow online portals for a weight loss diet and was surviving on water. Also read | Fatty liver disease is spreading fast: This diet could save your liver from damage

Anorexia nervosa, often simply called anorexia, is an eating disorder in which people have a low body weight. (Representative picture Freepik)

Anorexia nervosa, often simply called anorexia, is an eating disorder in which people have a low body weight. (Representative picture Freepik)

What is anorexia nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa, often simply called anorexia, is a serious eating disorder characterised by a distorted body image and an intense fear of gaining weight, which leads to restrictive eating habits and significant weight loss. But before we dive into what triggers anorexia, let's learn more about Sree Nanda's case.

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What happened to the Kerala teen?

According to Sree Nanda's family and doctors, her anorexia reportedly persisted for about five to six months. She was hardly eating anything, and reportedly she hid it from the family. About five months back, she was taken to the hospital, and the doctors advised that she needed to eat and asked the family to get a psychiatric consultation.

Dr Nagesh Manohar Prabhu, a consultant physician at Thalaserry Co-operative Hospital, told ANI that Sree Nanda was brought to the hospital around 12 days ago and was directly admitted to the ICU. The physician said, "She was hardly 24 kgs, bedridden. Her sugar levels, sodium, and BP were low. She was out on ventilator support. But her condition did not improve, and she succumbed."

Testosterone, Sperm and Diet

 Testosterone, Sperm and Diet

No, testosterone and sperm are not the same. They are related but serve different functions in the male reproductive system.

Testosterone

• It is a hormone produced mainly in the testes (and in small amounts by the adrenal glands).
• It plays a key role in male characteristics like muscle mass, deep voice, facial hair, and libido.
• It is essential for sperm production but does not itself contain sperm.

Sperm

• Sperm are male reproductive cells (gametes) produced in the testes.
• They carry genetic material (DNA) and are necessary for fertilization of a female egg.
• Testosterone helps in the production of sperm, but sperm are separate physical entities.

Key Difference

• Testosterone is a hormone, while sperm are cells.
• Testosterone stimulates sperm production but does not contain genetic material for reproduction.
• Sperm are required for fertilization, whereas testosterone regulates male reproductive functions.

Libido refers to a person's sexual desire or drive. It is influenced by various factors, including hormones (like testosterone), psychological state, physical health, and external stimuli.

Factors Affecting Libido

1.   Hormones – Testosterone plays a key role in boosting libido in both men and women.

2.   Mental Health – Stress, anxiety, and depression can reduce sexual desire.

3.   Physical Health – Chronic illnesses, fatigue, and certain medications can lower libido.

4.   Age – Libido naturally decreases with age due to hormonal changes.

5.   Lifestyle – Diet, exercise, sleep, and substance use (like alcohol or drugs) impact sexual drive.

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in boosting testosterone levels and sperm production. Here are some of the best foods to include:

1. Foods That Boost Testosterone & Sperm Count

A. Zinc-Rich Foods (Essential for Sperm & Testosterone Production)

• Oysters  – The best natural source of zinc. – High in zinc and antioxidants.
• Red meat (lean beef, lamb) – Contains zinc, protein, and iron.
• Chickpeas & Lentils – Good plant-based sources of zinc.

B. Healthy Fats (Support Hormone Production)

• Olive oil & Avocados 🥑 – Improve testosterone levels.
• Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, Brazil nuts) – Provide healthy fats, selenium, and zinc.
• Fatty Fish (Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines) 🐟 – Rich in omega-3s, which improve sperm quality.

C. Vitamin D Sources (Boosts Testosterone)

• Egg yolks  – Rich in Vitamin D and cholesterol (needed for testosterone).
• Milk & Dair – Contains vitamin D and calcium for hormone balance.
• Mushrooms  – One of the best plant-based sources of Vitamin D.

D. Antioxidant-Rich Foods (Improve Sperm Quality)

• Dark Chocolate  (high in L-Arginine) – Enhances sperm count and motility.
• Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries, Goji berries) 🍓 – Rich in antioxidants.
• Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Methi, Drumstick leaves) – Boosts folic acid, essential for healthy sperm.

2. Foods to Avoid (That Reduce Testosterone & Sperm Count)

·        Processed Foods & Junk Food – High in trans fats, which lower testosterone.

·        Excess Sugar & Soft Drinks – Increases insulin resistance, affecting hormone balance.

·        Soy-Based Products – Contain phytoestrogens that may reduce testosterone levels.

·         Alcohol & Smoking – Reduces sperm production and testosterone levels.

Here’s a natural diet plan to boost testosterone and sperm production, with a balance of essential nutrients:

Testosterone & Sperm Boosting Diet Plan

 

a.   Early Morning (6:00 - 7:00 AM)

·        Warm water with lemon & honey – Detoxifies the body

·        1 handful of nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, Brazil nuts, Pumpkin seeds) – Rich in zinc, selenium & omega-3

·        1 Banana or Dates (2-3 pcs) – Increases energy & testosterone

 

b.   Breakfast (8:00 - 9:00 AM)

·        Option 1: 2 boiled eggs + whole-grain toast + a glass of full-fat milk

·        Option 2: Oats porridge with chia seeds, flaxseeds, and honey

·        Option 3: Sprouts salad (chickpeas, green gram) with lemon juice

·        Drink a cup of green tea (rich in antioxidants) after breakfast

 

c.   Mid-Morning Snack (11:00 AM)

·        1 fruit (Banana, Pomegranate, Orange, or Papaya) – Improves sperm quality

·        Handful of mixed seeds (Pumpkin, Sunflower, Flaxseeds) – Boosts testosterone

 

d.   Lunch (1:00 - 2:00 PM)

·        Option 1: Brown rice/Quinoa + Grilled Chicken/Fish + Cooked Vegetables + Curd

·        Option 2: Chapati + Paneer/Tofu Bhurji + Dal + Salad (tomato, carrot, cucumber)

·        Option 3: Ragi/Millet dosa with coconut chutney + buttermilk

·        Include Green Leafy Vegetables (like spinach, moringa leaves) daily

 

e.   Evening Snack (4:30 - 5:30 PM)

·        Handful of walnuts/dark chocolate (85% cocoa) – Improves sperm motility

·        1 cup herbal tea (Ashwagandha / Ginger / Tulsi tea) – Reduces stress, boosts testosterone

 

f.     Dinner (7:30 - 8:30 PM)

·        Option 1: Grilled fish/Chicken soup + steamed vegetables

·        Option 2: Paneer salad + Dal soup

·        Option 3: Quinoa khichdi + Yogurt

 

·        Avoid heavy carbs at night to maintain hormone balance

 

g.   Before Bed (10:00 - 10:30 PM)

·        1 glass of warm milk with a pinch of turmeric + Ashwagandha powder – Enhances testosterone & sleep quality

 

h.   Additional Tips

·        Drink 3-4 liters of water daily for sperm health

·        Exercise (weight training, yoga) to boost testosterone naturally

·        Get 7-8 hours of sleep for hormone balance

·        Avoid stress, smoking, and alcohol

Home Remedies

Here are some effective home remedies to naturally boost testosterone and sperm production:

Home Remedies for Testosterone & Sperm Health

1.   Ashwagandha (Indian Ginseng)

How to Use:

Take 1 teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder with warm milk before bedtime.

• Boosts testosterone, improves sperm count & motility.

 

2.   Garlic & Honey Remedy

How to Use:

• Crush 2-3 garlic cloves and mix with 1 teaspoon of raw honey.
• Eat daily on an empty stomach for better blood circulation & testosterone boost.

3.   Fenugreek (Methi) Seeds

How to Use:

• Soak 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds overnight in water.
• Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
• Helps in boosting libido & sperm quality.

 

4.   Drumstick Leaves (Moringa)

 

How to Use:

• Add fresh drumstick leaves to dal or make juice with honey. Increases sperm count and improves stamina.

 

5.   Pomegranate Juice

How to Use:

• Drink 1 glass of fresh pomegranate juice daily.
• High in antioxidants, improves sperm quality & testosterone.

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6.   Pumpkin Seeds & Honey

How to Use:

• Blend 1 tablespoon of pumpkin seeds with 1 teaspoon of honey.
• Consume daily to boost zinc levels, essential for sperm production.

 

7.   Dates & Almonds Mix

 

How to Use:

• Soak 4-5 dates and 5 almonds overnight.
• Eat in the morning for better libido & stamina.

8.   Tulsi (Holy Basil) Leaves

How to Use:

• Chew 4-5 fresh tulsi leaves in the morning.
• Supports testosterone levels & sperm production.

 

9.   Shatavari (For Hormonal Balance)

How to Use:

• Mix 1 teaspoon of Shatavari powder in warm milk.
• Helps improve reproductive health & testosterone.

10 Bonus Lifestyle Tips

·        Daily Exercise (Strength Training, Yoga) – Boosts testosterone.

·        Sunlight Exposure (Vitamin D) – 15-20 mins daily for hormone balance.

·        Avoid Plastics – BPA (in plastic bottles) reduces testosterone.

·        Stay Stress-Free – Practice meditation & deep breathing.

 

Danny Details

1.   Age - 74

2.   Daily Activity Level (Sedentary, Moderate, Active) - Moderate

3.   Any Specific Health Issues? (e.g., diabetes, high BP, stress) - diabetes (since 20 years)

4.   Your Goal – More focus on testosterone, sperm health, or overall vitality? - More focus on testosterone, sperm

5.   Preferred Diet Type – Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian - Mostly Vegetarian but occasionally Vegetarian

customized daily routine for boosting testosterone and sperm health, while keeping diabetes in check:

 

 

 

 

 

Daily Routine Diet for Testosterone & Sperm Health

a.   Early Morning (6:00 - 7:00 AM)

 

·        Drink: Warm water with lemon & cinnamon – Helps control blood sugar & detoxifies the body.

• 1 teaspoon soaked fenugreek seeds – Improves insulin sensitivity & boosts testosterone.

b.   Exercise (30-40 minutes):

• Walking (20-30 mins) or Light Yoga (Pranayama, Surya Namaskar)
• Strength exercises (Bodyweight squats, resistance band workouts) – Helps increase testosterone.

c.   Herbal Supplement:

• 1 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder in warm water / milk – Boosts testosterone & reduces stress.

d.   Breakfast (8:00 - 9:00 AM)

·        Option 1: 2 boiled eggs (if consuming non-veg) + whole-grain toast + a handful of nuts

·        Option 2: Sprouted moong & chickpea salad with lemon juice

·        Option 3: Oats porridge with chia seeds & cinnamon (controls blood sugar & helps sperm health)

·        Drink a cup of Green Tea (rich in antioxidants & supports testosterone levels)

 

e.   Mid-Morning Snack (11:00 AM)

·        1 small bowl of pumpkin seeds & walnuts – Boosts zinc & omega-3s.

·        1 glass fresh pomegranate juice (no sugar) – Improves blood flow & sperm health.

 

f.     Lunch (1:00 - 2:00 PM)

·        Option 1: Brown rice + Dal + Green leafy vegetables (like spinach, methi)

·        Option 2: Chapati + Paneer curry + Curd + Cucumber salad

·        Option 3: Quinoa khichdi with vegetables + Buttermilk

 

 

 

Always include:

·        Garlic & Turmeric in cooking – Boosts blood circulation & reduces inflammation.

·        Drumstick leaves (moringa) once a week – Enhances testosterone & sperm count.

 

g.   Evening Snack (4:30 - 5:30 PM)

·        Handful of soaked almonds & 2-3 dates – Good for energy & hormone balance.

·        1 cup Tulsi-Ginger Tea (without sugar) – Improves immunity & reduces stress.

 

h.   Dinner (7:30 - 8:30 PM)

·        Option 1: Grilled tofu or paneer salad with nuts & olive oil dressing

·        Option 2: Vegetable soup + Millet roti (Bajra/Ragi)

·        Option 3: Moong dal dosa with coconut chutney

·        Avoid heavy carbs at night to maintain hormone balance.

 

i.     Before Bed (10:00 - 10:30 PM)

·        1 glass warm milk with a pinch of turmeric & Ashwagandha powder – Helps testosterone production & better sleep.

·        5 soaked almonds + 2 walnuts – Supports brain & hormone health.

Weekly Additions for Better Sperm & Testosterone Health

·        Eat Fish (like salmon) once a week – If non-veg, it helps boost omega-3s.

·        Have Dark Chocolate (85% cocoa) 2-3 times a week – Increases sperm quality.

·        Sunlight Exposure (15-20 mins daily) – For natural Vitamin D.

·        Drink Coconut Water (once a week) – Natural minerals for fertility.

Foods to Avoid

Refined sugar, white bread, and processed foods – Worsen diabetes & testosterone.

·        Deep-fried foods & excess salt – Can lower sperm count.

·        Soy-based products (in excess) – May reduce testosterone levels.

·        Too much caffeine – Can affect fertility & sleep.

This routine balances testosterone & sperm health while keeping diabetes under control.