Effect on human health

HOW do hunger strikes impact one’s health? According to doctors, the primary source of energy for bodily functioning is glucose. Its deprivation results in discontinuation of the glucose supply. A glucose-deprived body starts tapping into its reserves of glycogen, an immediate source of energy, which lasts for about 24 hours. Normally, it takes around four to eight hours for the body to start reacting against glucose denial.

“The human body is programmed to withstand substantial periods of food deprivation though its effects may vary on individuals,” says senior nutritionist Dr Veena Bhargava of Fortis Hospital, New Delhi. “During such periods, the brain uses ketones as the fuel source. The body’s stored fats are converted into ketones which are then used by the brain as fuel. The duration of survival to a large extent depends on the amount of fat stored in the body. Once the fat deposits whittle down, the body starts starving again.”