The maximum limit of a person is to be hungry for a few days

People can usually only survive for about 3 days when completely deprived of water, but the maximum survival time in a fasting state is about 7-21 days. The survival time is mainly influenced by factors such as basal metabolic rate, body fat content, environmental temperature, water intake, and health status. In a state of hunger, the lower body experiences three stages: glycogen depletion, fat supply, and protein breakdown. During the initial 24-48 hours, the glycogen stored in the liver gradually depletes, and hypoglycemic reactions such as dizziness and fatigue may occur. Subsequently, adipose tissue decomposes into ketone bodies for energy supply, resulting in significant weight loss but still maintaining organ function. After prolonged hunger for more than 2 weeks, muscle protein is extensively broken down, leading to organ atrophy and electrolyte imbalance, and in severe cases, multiple organ failure can occur. In extreme cases, records show that obese individuals survive for more than 40 days with sufficient drinking water, but with severe sequelae. However, the tolerance time of children, pregnant women, diabetes patients and other groups is significantly shortened, and life risk may occur after 3-5 days of starvation. Special environments such as high altitude and high temperature can accelerate the dehydration process, further shortening the survival window.

In a state of hunger, it is necessary to closely monitor vital signs such as heart rate and blood pressure, and gradually transition from liquid foods when resuming diet to avoid refeeding syndrome. It is recommended to maintain a regular diet in daily life, reserve an appropriate amount of emergency food, and prioritize ensuring water supply in case of emergencies. If fasting is required due to illness or special reasons, nutritional support treatment must be carried out under medical supervision.