AI Diet Tip Sends U.S. Man to Hospital with Rare Bromide Poisoning

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A 60-year-old man in the United States landed in the hospital after following diet advice from ChatGPT, which led to a rare and dangerous condition. Hoping to cut down on table salt for health reasons, he asked the AI for alternatives. The tool suggested sodium bromide, a chemical once used in medicine but now banned in food due to its toxic effects.

From Kitchen Change to Medical Crisis

For about three months, the man replaced regular salt with sodium bromide. Over time, he developed severe paranoia, hallucinations, confusion, extreme thirst, and skin rashes. He became convinced that his neighbor was trying to poison him.

When he was admitted to the hospital, doctors noticed unusually high chloride levels in his blood tests. They later discovered the readings were false, caused by bromide interfering with the tests. The correct diagnosis was bromism, a form of bromide poisoning once common in the early 20th century but now extremely rare.

Treatment and Recovery

Doctors treated him with intravenous fluids to remove the bromide from his system, restored his electrolyte balance, and prescribed medication to manage his mental health symptoms. After three weeks of treatment, his condition improved.

AI Role and the Lesson Learned

Researchers later asked ChatGPT the same question and found it again suggested sodium bromide without warning of its dangers. Experts warn that AI can provide answers that appear logical but lack essential safety context.

Health professionals stress that AI can be useful for general information but should never replace professional medical guidance, especially for decisions related to diet or health care.