METABOLIC ASPECTS OF ACUTE STARVATION IN NORMAL HUMANS. PERFORMANCE AND CARDIOVASCULAR EVALUATION FUNCTION

Six healthy, adult males between the ages of 21 and 52 years fasted for a period of 10 days with water available ad libitum. Basal oxygen uptakes (V O2 in ml/minute and ml/kg body weight/minute) were significantly decreased during the fasting period. In submaximal work on the treadmill, V E BTPS and V O2 STPD in ml/minute and ml/kg/minute were significantly decreased during the fasting and rehabilitation periods, indicating a training effect. The maximal oxygen uptakes in ml/kg/minute were not significantly lowered during the fasting period. Other maximal work measurements (V E BTPS, pulse rates and kg meters of work/minute) were also lower when compared to the control values, again suggesting a training effect. EKGs were significantly abnormal during the fasting phase and considered to reflect a severe stress. One subject developed an abnormal EEG and was immediately removed from the study. Although physical performance was not sifnificantly impaired during a 10 day starvation period, complete fasting without mineral supplementation is not recommended for troops on combat patrol. (Author) See also AD-642 310.