What Happens to Your Body if You Don't Eat or Drink for 3 Days?
When you don’t eat or drink for several days, the body begins to use its own resources for energy. After the first day without food and water, you may experience dizziness, fatigue, and lightheadedness. By the second day, your body may start to enter a state of ketosis, a process that occurs when the body starts to break down fats for energy. By the third day without food or water, your body will start to shut down its organs and systems in order to conserve energy.
Dehydration
The most immediate effect of not eating or drinking is dehydration. Dehydration occurs when your body doesn't have enough fluids to function properly. This can lead to a drop in blood pressure, dizziness, and fatigue. It also increases your risk of developing serious health complications, such as kidney failure, shock, and even death.
Glycogen Depletion
Glycogen is a form of carbohydrates stored in the liver and muscles. When you don’t eat or drink for several days, your body begins to break down glycogen for energy. This process can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, and confusion.
Ketosis
Ketosis is a process that occurs when the body starts to break down fat for energy. This can lead to a buildup of ketones in the blood, which can be toxic. Symptoms of ketosis include nausea, vomiting, and bad breath.
Organ Failure
If you don’t eat or drink for several days, your organs can start to shut down in order to conserve energy. This can lead to a number of serious complications, including heart failure, kidney failure, and liver failure.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition occurs when your body is deprived of essential nutrients. If you don’t eat or drink for several days, you may become malnourished, which can lead to a weakened immune system, anemia, and other health problems.
Not eating or drinking for several days can have serious consequences, and it should not be undertaken lightly. If you are considering going without food or water for more than a day, you should consult a doctor first.
