A human can typically survive without food for about 1 to 2 months, depending on various factors such as body fat, overall health, hydration, and metabolic adjustments
. Here is a detailed overview:
- Survival Time Without Food : Estimates suggest survival ranges from 8 to 21 days in many cases, but some people have survived much longer. For example, hunger strikers have lasted 45 to 61 days without food, and one documented case involved a man fasting for 382 days under medical supervision, consuming only water, tea, coffee, and vitamins
- Role of Water : Access to water is critical. People can survive only about 3 to 5 days without water, but with water, survival without food can extend to weeks or months
- Body's Adaptation : Initially, the body uses glucose from food and glycogen stores for energy. After 24 hours without food, glycogen is depleted, and the body starts breaking down fat for energy through ketosis. When fat stores run out, muscle tissue is broken down, which leads to severe health complications
- Weight Loss and Health Risks : During starvation, weight loss can be rapid initially (1-2 kg per day) and then slow down. Losing 10% or more of body weight or reaching a BMI of 16.5 or less signals serious health risks. Prolonged starvation can cause organ failure and death
In summary, while the average healthy person might survive about 3 weeks without food, survival can extend up to 2 months or more under certain conditions, especially if water is available. However, prolonged starvation carries severe health risks and is not sustainable or safe
