Fitness Influencer Dmitry Nuyanzin Dies After Extreme Challenge

A tragic incident has highlighted the potential dangers of extreme dieting and social media challenges. Russian fitness coach and influencer Dmitry Nuyanzin, aged 30, died after participating in a binge-eating challenge where he consumed 10,000 calories daily. Nuyanzin aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of his weight loss program by gaining and then losing 50 pounds in a short period.

Based in Orenburg, Russia, Nuyanzin was a well-known figure in the fitness community, boasting over 43,000 followers on Instagram. His educational background included graduation from the Orenburg Olympic Reserve School and the National Fitness University in St. Petersburg. With 11 years of experience, he had built a reputation as a personal trainer for elite clients in Russia.

In a video posted on October 21, 2023, Nuyanzin showcased his challenge, consuming foods such as mac and cheese, chocolate cake, and hamburgers. His weight increased from 95 kg (209 lbs) to 106 kg (233 lbs) as part of this endeavor. He even incentivized his followers by offering $100 to anyone who could lose 10% of their body weight using his program by the New Year.

Nuyanzin’s last video, shared on November 18, featured him eating Lay’s potato chips, bringing his weight to 105 kg (231 lbs). Reports indicate that he began to feel unwell shortly after this video, leading him to cancel training sessions. Despite expressing a desire to consult a doctor, he tragically passed away in his sleep just three days later due to cardiac arrest.

Fans and colleagues have expressed their shock and grief over his sudden death. One follower wrote on Instagram, “It’s a nightmare! I am in shock! I refuse to believe this. What happened? Condolences to his family and friends, give them strength to survive such grief.” Another commented, “An excellent coach and a wonderful mentor… the news was shocking. Condolences to his family.”

Nuyanzin’s death raises concerns about the risks associated with extreme dietary practices often promoted on social media. He is not the first social media star to face health issues linked to such challenges. Earlier in November, South Korean mukbang star Tzuyang revealed significant dental damage from consuming 30,000 calories a day, while Turkish mukbang personality Efecan Kultur tragically died in March 2025 from obesity-related health complications.

As the fitness and influencer industries continue to grow, the balance between promoting health and engaging in extreme challenges remains critical. Nuyanzin’s story serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of prioritizing social media visibility over personal health.