Russian Fitness Influencer Dies at 30 Following Eating Challenge

Dmitry Nuyanzin, a 30-year-old fitness influencer from Russia, has tragically passed away following a binge-eating challenge that he undertook to promote his weight-loss programme. According to a report by the Daily Mail, Nuyanzin had been consuming 10,000 calories a day for several weeks with the intention of gaining weight to inspire his clients in their weight-loss journeys.

The influencer had aimed to increase his body weight by 25 kilograms, which he planned to shed as part of a motivational campaign for his followers. However, Nuyanzin began to feel unwell and subsequently cancelled his training sessions to seek medical advice. Unfortunately, he died in his sleep from heart failure before he could attend his scheduled check-up.

On 18 November, Nuyanzin announced via social media that he had reached a weight of 105 kilograms, having gained at least 13 kilograms in just one month as part of his challenge. In a promotional video shared on Instagram, he stated, "My WEIGHT LOSS COURSE is starting soon, where you can win cool prizes and, most importantly, build a beautiful body, learn how to eat and have fun!" He added that he would be losing weight alongside his followers, referring to them as ‘minions’ and calling the experience "twice as exciting."

Nuyanzin shared details of his diet during the challenge, which included high-calorie foods. He described his breakfast as a plate of pastries and half a cake, followed by 800 grams of dumplings with mayonnaise for lunch. His snacks often included crisps, and his dinner typically consisted of a burger and two small pizzas.

Having studied at the Orenburg Olympic Reserve School and the National Fitness University in St. Petersburg, Nuyanzin had spent a decade working as a personal trainer for elite athletes in Russia. He was known for posting health and fitness content on Instagram, where he had amassed a following of over 40,000 individuals.

His sudden death has raised concerns about the potential dangers associated with extreme dieting practices and binge-eating challenges, highlighting the need for more awareness regarding health and fitness safety. Nuyanzin’s case serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in pursuing extreme weight-loss methods for both influencers and their audiences.