Delhi Minister Atishi hospitalised after drop in blood sugar levels; know how fasting affects your health

Delhi Water Minister Atishi Marlena, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike over water shortage in the national capital, was admitted to the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital on June 25 after her health condition deteriorated. According to an X update from AAP, her blood sugar level dropped to 43 at midnight and to 36 at 3 AM, after which she was advised immediate hospitalisation. “She has not eaten anything for the last five days and is on an indefinite hunger strike demanding Haryana government to release Delhi’s share of water,” the post read.

What happens to the body in fasting mode and how rapidly do you lose weight?

Complete fasting is when people abstain from not just food but also water, in some instances. While significant weight loss may occur during this time, it may not be the only reason, said Dr Pooja Pillai, consultant physician and diabetologist, SPARSH Hospital, Bengaluru.

“Weight loss depends on various factors such as an individual’s starting weight, basal metabolic rate, existing co-morbid conditions, and overall health. Glycogen, stored in the liver and muscles, is the body’s first reserve of energy. As glycogen is bound with water, the initial weight loss is largely due to water loss. This can result in a rapid drop of 2-4 Kg within the first few days. After the glycogen stores are depleted, the body shifts to burning fat for energy,” explained Dr Pillai.

On average, the “body may lose around 0.5 to 1 kg of body weight per day during fasting”, noted Dr Pillai, adding that this “may vary based on the individual’s body composition”.

While fasting can lead to rapid weight loss, it comes with significant health risks like a drop in blood sugar levels.

Short-term side effects include headaches, gastritis, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and hypoglycemia. “The long-term effects include multiple nutrient deficiencies, muscle wasting, and organ damage,” said Dr Pillai.

The human body can survive without food for a surprisingly long time, often for several weeks depending on the individual body type. “Typically, a person can survive without water for about 3 to 7 days, depending on environmental conditions and physical activity levels,” noted Dr Pillai.

Here’s how a rise or drop in blood sugar levels affects your health (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

While complete fasting can lead to rapid weight loss, it poses significant health risks and should not be undertaken lightly. “Anyone considering fasting should do so under strict medical supervision to mitigate potential dangers and ensure safety,” said Dr Pillai.

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