27-year-old woman died of starvation in hotel room after following a raw 'fruitarian' diet

Karolina Krzyzak was discovered deceased in a Bali hotel room last year

A 27-year-old woman tragically died of starvation in her Bali hotel room after attempting an experimental 'fruitarian' diet.

The Cut reports that Polish-native Karolina Krzyzak checked into the Sumberkima Hill resort in Bali in December 2024, where the former Leeds University student requested a villa with a pool.

However, hotel staff were 'shocked' when Karolina arrived at the resort, as they reported she was 'emaciated' with sunken eyes and her collarbone prominently visible.

Karolina was so frail that a night clerk had to carry her to her room during check-in, prompting staff to inquire if she needed medical assistance.

Karolina firmly declined, despite hotel employees encouraging her to get medical help the following day. Again, she responded with a firm no.

Over the following days, hotel staff continued their visits to Karolina, delivering only fruit to her room, a diet quite typical at the retreat.

However, due to Karolina's physical condition, the staff maintained a vigilant watch over her.

The Cut reports that Karolina's health deteriorated to the extent that staff had to assist her in turning over in bed. Concerns escalated soon after a phone call from someone who had met Karolina during her travels.

This person was worried because they hadn't heard from their backpacking companion and requested the hotel staff to ensure her well-being.

When staff entered her room, they discovered Karolina lying stiff and motionless on the floor. She had tragically passed away.

Is a fruitarian diet dangerous?

While battling anorexia, Karolina followed a fruitarian diet—a vegan regimen mainly composed of fruits, sometimes including nuts and seeds.

Dietician Melainie Rogers informed The Cut that this is 'absolutely not a sustainable way of eating'. At her death, Karolina weighed just three-and-a-half stone.

Before she passed, reports indicate that Karolina frequently confided in friends about feeling weak and lacking energy.

"You’re not getting sufficient protein or fats or omega-3s. The body is essentially running on empty," Rogers explained.

Registered dietitian Kate Patton mentioned to Cleveland Clinic that a fruitarian diet is 'not usually recommended by dietitians' and carries a 'big risk of malnourishment'.

Although fruit is healthy in moderation, it should only constitute 25 to 30 percent of your diet.

Patton added: "You might lose weight on the fruitarian diet, but I don’t consider this a true benefit, because you are likely losing muscle."

If you've been affected by any of the issues in this article and wish to speak with someone confidentially, call the BEAT Eating Disorders helpline at 0808 801 0677. Helplines are open 365 days a year from 9am–8pm during the week, and 4pm–8pm on weekends and bank holidays. Alternatively, you can try the one-to-one webchat