Hangzhou woman hospitalized after daily coconut water consumption for weight loss

A woman in Hangzhou, China, was hospitalized after consuming approximately 1 liter of coconut water daily in an attempt to follow a viral weight loss trend involving potassium-rich drinks. The woman, who already had moderate kidney impairment, developed severe hyperkalemia, leading to life-threatening malignant cardiac arrhythmia.

Medical experts explain that these weight loss methods primarily work by promoting the excretion of sodium and water, causing weight loss through dehydration rather than fat reduction. Because potassium from liquids is absorbed more rapidly than from solid food, it can pose a significant metabolic burden on the kidneys.

Health professionals advise that individuals with impaired kidney function, those undergoing dialysis, people with a history of hyperkalemia, or those taking potassium-sparing blood pressure medications should avoid excessive consumption of high-potassium beverages.