BASAL METABOLISM IN PROLONGED FASTING IN MAN

Abstract

Basal metabolism was measured daily in 1 man during alimentation and during a fast of 40 days. After a short initial rise there was a marked decrease in basal metabolism as a result of fasting, both total and per unit of weight and of surface. There was no increase in basal metabolism during 2 mo. after fasting. Composition as well as the total caloric value of the diet may affect the basal metabolic rate.