March 11, 2026

Athens News

News in English from Greece

What happens to the body in 36 hours without food: simulation and warnings from doctors


Graphic simulation shows what happens to the human body if it does not eat for 36 hours.

If earlier refusal of food was mainly associated with religious practices, for example, with fasting during Ramadan, today fasting is increasingly presented as a way “reboot” the body.

Some people limit themselves to one meal a day, others switch only to water, and still others deliberately go for about a day and a half without food before returning to their normal diet.

Opinions of scientists and doctors

The scientific community does not give an unambiguous assessment of such practices.

Some experts point to possible advantages: increased fat burning and changes in metabolism. Others emphasize that such experiments can be dangerous without medical supervision.

The key process in long-term food refusal is considered ketosis – a condition in which the body begins to use fat reserves instead of carbohydrates.

Additionally activated autophagy – a natural mechanism for cell renewal.

Autophagy and body cleansing

Autophagy works as an internal “cleaning mechanism”: cells process damaged elements, preventing their accumulation.

With nutrient deficiency, this process is enhanced, so fasting is often associated with its activation.

How the body changes over time

According to the video channel The Limitless Emperorthe body goes through several stages:

  • After 4 hours, glucose reserves begin to deplete
  • After 8 hours – blood sugar levels noticeably decrease
  • After 12 hours – fat burning increases
  • After 16 hours – autophagy is activated
  • After 24 hours – cell renewal accelerates, growth hormone levels increase
  • After 36 hours – peak autophagy is reached

This stage in the simulation is described as a conditional “complete reboot” of the body.

Potential Risks

Despite the claimed benefits, doctors warn of serious risks.

Prolonged fasting can lead to:

  • a sharp decrease in pressure
  • dizziness and weakness
  • sugar level disorders
  • hormonal imbalances
  • exacerbation of chronic diseases

This practice is especially dangerous for:

  • people with type 1 diabetes
  • pregnant women
  • people with low blood pressure
  • patients taking anti-inflammatory drugs
  • people with eating disorders

Medicine position

The British Health Service (NHS) emphasizes the importance of eating regularly and does not recommend skipping breakfast.

Experts note that any radical changes in diet should occur only after consulting a doctor.

Long periods of abstaining from food are only permissible under medical supervision.

Otherwise, an attempt at “recovery” may result in serious harm to the body.



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