Can a Morbidly Obese Person Survive by Only Drinking Water?

The Importance of Nutrients and Fat Storage

In order for a morbidly obese person to survive by only drinking water, they would need to ensure they are getting the necessary vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are lost through metabolism and u****. Without these essential nutrients, they would develop conditions like scurvy within a couple of months.

The body requires minerals like sodium and potassium for nerve signaling, including the signaling of the heart. Without sufficient quant***** of minerals, the person could die from heart arrhythmia in a matter of weeks. It is crucial to provide the body with the necessary micronutrients to maintain proper bodily functions.

If the obese person meets the requirements for vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, they could survive as long as their fat storages last. Fat has around 9kcal per gram, so with a sedentary lifestyle, they could use about 1 to 1.5 pounds of body fat per day. This means that if someone is 100 pounds overweight, they could go 70-100 days before reaching "normal" body weight levels, and another 30-60 days before their body has no more accessible body fat and starts using proteins from muscle for energy.

A person who weighs 600 pounds could potentially survive for about one and a half years, assuming they are provided with micronutrients and minimum quant***** of amino acids. However, it is important to note that relying solely on fat burning for survival can lead to malnutrition. Without proper nutrient intake, the person would be severely deficient in vitamins, iron, and other essential nutrients, putting them at risk for various health problems.

If an average weight person and an obese person were stranded on a deserted island with only fresh water to drink, their life expectancies would not be drastically different. The lack of minerals and water-soluble vitamins would occur independent of body fat. Both individuals would face the same challenges in terms of nutrient deficiencies.

Water fasting, where a person only drinks water, has been done for extended periods of time, with the current record being around one year. However, it is important to ensure sufficient vitamin intake during water fasting to prevent deficiencies and related health issues. Medical supervision is crucial in such situations, and ending the fast should be handled carefully to avoid potential medical problems.

Interestingly, the winner of the first season of Survivor in the US was overweight at the start and lost a significant amount of weight during the show. By the end, he was the only one thinking clearly, and his extra weight was considered helpful in the survival situation. However, it is worth noting that he later went to jail for tax evasion, indicating that his decision-making may not have been entirely clear.

While it may be possible for a morbidly obese person to survive by only drinking water, it is essential to provide them with the necessary vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to prevent deficiencies and related health complications. Relying solely on fat burning for survival can lead to malnutrition, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet for overall well-being.