What Is Breatharianism? Minnesota Woman Talks New Diet That Doesn't Require Solid Foods

It seems every few years a new diet fad begins bubbling up, whether it was the Atkins diet in the early 2000s or, more recently, going keto. Now a Minnesota woman claims she has found the perfect diet for her that doesn’t even need solid foods.

The new diet is courtesy of 25-year-old Audra Bear, who preaches the benefits of a plan called “breatharianism.”

Under breatharianism, Bear now practices a lifestyle of intermittent fasting mixed with breathing exercises and juices to get the necessary nutrients for her body. She even claims to be able to go 97 days at a time without ingesting solid foods.

That’s not to say she has cut out most foods entirely but saves those times for family get-togethers and celebratory events.

“My energy is heightened, my senses are stronger, and I’m feeling the healthiest I’ve ever been. I feel relaxed about life and a deeper connection to myself,” Bear told Fox News in an interview. “Prana is another word for energy, also known as Qi or Chi, It is a life-giving force that flows in, through and around all things, it’s in the air we breathe, the sunshine, nature, connections with people and all living things. It is a powerful energy that actually has the ability to fuel and sustain us as humans.”

While Bear preaches the benefits of the practice, nutritionists aren’t as keen on this idea. In fact, one said it could be unhealthy and harmful.

“A diet that only includes fruit juices and teas is likely to be low in energy so although initial weight loss may occur, in the long term you will be missing out on important nutrients for good health,” nutritionist Helena Gibson-Moore told LADBible.

“Fruit and veg, whole grains, good sources of protein like oily fish, pulses (beans) and nuts, some dairy or dairy alternatives, some unsaturated fats and lower intakes of fatty processed meats, refined grain, salt, saturated fat and sugary foods and drinks is associated with better health outcomes.”