Metabolic Aspects of Acute Starvation in Normal Humans (10 Days)

Abstract

The effects of starvation were evaluated on six normal, healthy adults during a 10-day period of complete starvation. Three undesirable problems related to fasting were encountered. These were: a) the great body water loss resulting in body hypohydration; b) the fairly large urinary nitrogen excretion showing that body protein was being catabolized; and c) the fairly large mineral losses concomitant with the large body water loss. Also, abnormalities in electrocardiograms and one electroencephalogram were observed during the latter stages of starvation. These factors reflecting a severe stress could eventually lead to greatly impaired mental and physical inefficiency. At the end of 10 days of starvation, the men were in very poor condition both physically and mentally. There appeared to be increased weakness and apathy toward mental and physical work. They had frequent lapses of memory, were not at all mentally alert, were slow to respond to questions, were tired, pale and haggard, and had indications of muscle cramps, which may have been due to salt restriction and depletion of body stores. No problems were observed during rehabilitation. The men ate all desired food items and although practically no bowel movements were observed during starvation, the men all had normal movements within 6-8 hr of the first meal. It is suggested that complete fasting without mineral or vitamin supplementation should not be recommended either for a soldier on combat patrol or for a reducing diet. Although the men appeared to be in fairly good physical condition at the end of the 3rd day of fasting, starvation will not be recommended for this period of time since there might be an occasion when the period would be extended.