Extreme 'Bigu' Fasting Trend Leads to Severe Health Complications for Chinese Woman

According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand on August 27, 2026, a 31-year-old Chinese woman has suffered severe health consequences after attempting a 15-day water-only fast. The woman lost 20 kilograms during this period but subsequently developed significant mobility issues and memory impairment. Medical professionals diagnosed her with Wernicke encephalopathy, a brain disorder caused by thiamine deficiency, which affects balance, eye movement, and cognitive function. Doctors noted that her gait has become 'penguin-like' and may never fully recover.

The patient was attempting 'Bigu,' a Taoist-inspired practice that involves abstaining from grains to supposedly harness 'Qi' or life energy. While historically rooted in spiritual beliefs, the practice has gained traction on social media as an extreme weight-loss method. Medical experts warn that such radical fasting poses severe risks, including brain damage and, in some documented cases, death.

For residents and travelers in Thailand, this case highlights the dangers of following extreme health trends popularized on social media. While the cultural origins of Bigu are often cited by proponents, health authorities emphasize that such practices lack nutritional validity and can lead to irreversible physical harm. It remains to be confirmed whether social media platforms will implement stricter regulations on content promoting these dangerous fasting methods.