THE SIZE AND FUNCTION OF THE HUMAN HEART AT REST IN SEMI-STARVATION AND IN SUBSEQUENT REHABILITATION

Abstract

32 normal young [male] [male] were studied before, during and after 6 mos. of semi-starvation (S.S.) which produced 24% weight loss and the typical picture of severe famine. During S.S. the heart vol. decreased 16% and stroke output 18% (aver.). Venous pressure fell 50% and the resting pulse averaged 37. Both systolic and pulse pressures decreased slightly (12 and 6 mm., respectively). There was:slight cyanosis but no dyspnea in S.S. During S.S. the physical work of the heart, compared with the control period, averaged 72%/beat, 49%/minute and 41%/unit of tine in-systole. The mean saturation of the venous blood fell 20-30% and its O2 content 35-40%. In rehabilitation the heart size returned to normal in 12 wks. but the functional characteristics showed small recovery. After 20 wks. of rehabilitation, the circulatory function was still impaired but 12 wks. later, the residue of malfunction was very slight. In early rehabilitation, there were tendencies to cardiac failure in a few men. The rate of recovery in rehabilitation was greatly affected by the caloric intake but neither protein nor vit. supplements had any definite or consistent effects.