Weight Reduction by Prolonged Starvation

Abstract

Prolonged fasting as treatment for severe obesity poses some unique problems. The period of starvation should not exceed two months. Observations in 33 cases suggest that a minimum of one month of fasting may be necessary to break the habit of overeating. Besides vitamins and minerals, patients are given probenecid to prevent marked hyperuricemia. A high-protein diet providing 300 or 500 calories is given following termination of the fast. Results of treatment were good in 24 of the 33 cases.