Ask Mary

After a few days of starvation, your body will breakdown protein and fats to supply energy.  Protein from the muscles, heart, and internal organs will be degraded to form glucose.  Fats break down into fatty acids to provide fuel, but in the absence of adequate carbohydrate, the fatty acids are metabolized to ketone bodies. Excess ketones have a dehydrating effect as the body loses water to flush them out.  Sodium and potassium are lost in the process and, since those and other nutrients are not replenished, electrolyte imbalances and heart disturbances can ensue.  You will be too weak to engage in any significant exercise.  If prolonged, protein breakdown can lead to death.