Zhanna Samsonova, a vegan influencer known as Zhanna D’Art, has tragically passed away at the age of 39.
Originally from Moscow, Russia, Samsonova was a prominent figure in the vegan community, advocating for a strict plant-based diet. For 17 years, she traveled across Asia, documenting her lifestyle through social media, yoga practices, and raw food recipes.
Concerns Over Her Lifestyle
Following her death, Samsonova’s mother, Vera, spoke out about her concerns regarding her daughter’s extreme dietary habits. In an interview with Russian media, Vera expressed the struggles she faced trying to convince her daughter to reconsider her lifestyle.
“She chose this path. I fought for many years [but] she did not listen to her mother,” Vera said, according to LBC.
Friends of the influencer also voiced their worries. Speaking to the Russian outlet 116.ru, one friend described how Samsonova’s diet was visibly affecting her health.
“Her idle starvation was causing her to melt before our eyes, but she believed everything was fine,” they said. “Only her merry eyes and gorgeous hair compensated for the dreadful sight of a body tortured by idiocy. Forgive me if it sounds harsh.”
Another friend revealed that they often feared for her well-being: “I lived one floor above her and every day I feared finding her lifeless body in the morning. I convinced her to seek treatment, but she didn’t make it.”
Extreme Diet Practices
Samsonova followed a highly restrictive vegan diet, reportedly relying heavily on fruit, vegetable juice, and durian, a pungent tropical fruit. Friends also claimed that she avoided water, opting instead for natural juices.
In her own words, Samsonova described the transformation she believed her diet brought to her body and mind: “I see my body and mind transform every day. I love my new me and never move on to the habits that I used to use.”
Despite her passion for her lifestyle, her extreme practices raised concerns among those close to her.
Cause of Death
Samsonova passed away on July 21, 2023, in Malaysia. Her mother attributed her death to a “cholera-like infection” worsened by “exhaustion of the body by a vegan diet,” as reported by The Mirror. However, no official cause of death has been released.
The Debate Around Extreme Veganism
While a vegan diet offers numerous health benefits, such as a reduced risk of diabetes and lower blood sugar levels, experts caution that careful planning is essential. Healthline emphasizes the importance of incorporating necessary nutrients and supplements into a vegan diet to maintain overall health.
Samsonova’s tragic passing has reignited discussions around the potential risks of extreme dietary practices, highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition and seeking medical guidance when adopting restrictive diets.
Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance required in pursuing alternative lifestyles and the need to prioritize health above all else.