Internet Personality Avoided Carbs and Vegetables for 6 Years - Here's What Happened
Musician Isabella Ma decided to give up fruits for years, consuming only meat and dairy. What happened to her, and what are experts warning?
(Photo: shutterstock)Six years ago, Isabella (Bella) Ma, a 28-year-old internet influencer and musician, made a dramatic change to her diet. She completely eliminated carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables, switching to a diet based solely on meat and dairy products. Today, she claims her diet has completely transformed her life, but experts warn of serious consequences that such a diet may entail.
Isabella, also known as "The Steak and Butter Girl," says that switching to a carnivorous diet helped her overcome depression, improve her hormonal balance, and rid herself of skin issues like acne and psoriasis. According to her, she feels more energetic and has lost 11 kilograms. "I found that my body functions better when burning fat," she says in a video where she is seen consuming meat nonstop.
Ma claimed her diet caused her to grow to a height of 1.77 meters, making her taller than her brother. Despite her enthusiasm, nutrition experts caution that a carnivorous diet can lead to long-term health risks. Studies indicate that a high intake of red meat is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
A Harvard University study found that eating two servings of red meat a week raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, while another study by the University of Oxford showed a correlation between increased meat consumption and a higher risk of heart disease.
Dr. Angel, a pharmacology doctoral candidate and fitness coach, expressed skepticism about the carnivorous diet in a foreign media interview: "Yes, you can lose weight if you are in a calorie deficit, but there are more balanced ways to do it. The body needs fibers, vitamins, and minerals that come from fruits and vegetables."
Meanwhile, Isabella continues to consume large quantities of meat, with her videos garnering millions of views. In response, experts have clarified that before making such an extreme dietary decision, it is crucial to consult with professionals and ensure the body receives all essential nutrients for health, rather than relying on this diet.
