A History of Modern Research into Fasting, Starvation, and Inanition

Although detailed scientific studies on starvation physiology have been conducted since the ninteenth century, there is little uniformity in the terminology used to describe it. The term ‘‘fast’’ usually applies at the end of the postprandial period (basal or postabsorptive state). In this state, however, the digestive tract may still possess nutrients that can still be absorbed. This review will briefly mention short fasting periods, underfeeding, and calorie restriction within specific nutritional conditions (low food availability, special therapeutic diets). We will also detail the physiological effects of prolonged fasting (starvation), i.e., the exclusion of all food intakes except water and thus a complete deprivation of dietary energy over extended periods. We will also focus on the history of the major scientific advances detailing starvation physiology in vertebrates (Fish, Amphibians, and ‘‘Reptiles,’’ but mainly Birds and Mammals). Further insights into the detailed physiology of these vertebrates can be found in previously published literature (e.g., McCue 2010) and the other chapters of this book. Depending on the species, physiology during prolonged fasting depends on different parameters such as the preferential tissues for metabolic stores, the quantity stored, their availability, and the distinct routes of mobilization. Therefore, the capability of an animal to resist prolonged fasting is determined by its