Vegan influencer Zhanna Samsonova has tragically died aged 39.
The content creator went by the name Zhanna D’Art and became known for being dedicated to a plant-based lifestyle.
Originally from Moscow, Russia, she spent 17 years traveling Asia while blogging and practicing yoga.
After Zhanna Samsonova’s passing, her mother, Vera Samsonova, spoke with Russian media, expressing deep concern over her daughter’s extreme dietary choices.
“She chose this path,” Vera said in an interview cited by LBC. “I fought for many years, but she wouldn’t listen to her mother.”
Once an aspiring model, Zhanna reportedly refused to heed her family’s concerns. Her friends, speaking to Russian news outlet 116.ru, also voiced alarm over her strict vegan lifestyle, which they believe may have contributed to her decline.
One friend told the outlet, “Zhanna’s self-imposed starvation was causing her to waste away before our eyes, yet she believed everything was fine. Only her bright eyes and beautiful hair seemed to distract from the tragic sight of a body suffering under misguided choices. Forgive me if that sounds harsh.”
Another recalled, “I lived just one floor above her, and every day I feared I’d find her lifeless. I urged her to seek help, but it was too late.”
Friends also reported that Zhanna believed she didn’t need water, opting instead to drink only fruit and vegetable juices. She had also developed a strong preference for durian, a tropical fruit known for its strong odor and distinctive taste.
Reflecting on her strict lifestyle, Zhanna Samsonova once said, “I see my body and mind transform every day. I love my new self and never return to the habits I used to have.
“I eat simple food, even though I have extensive experience as a raw food chef. I enjoy creating my own recipes and inspiring others to eat more healthfully.”
Samsonova passed away on July 21, 2023, in Malaysia. According to The Mirror, her mother believes her death was caused by a “cholera-like infection,” worsened by the “exhaustion of the body by a vegan diet.”
An official cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
While a vegan lifestyle can offer health benefits such as reduced risk of diabetes and improved blood sugar levels experts at Healthline note the importance of proper nutritional planning. Those on a plant-based diet are advised to consult with healthcare providers about essential supplements to maintain overall health.
