Starvation and Its Effects on the Gut.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Nutrition Science
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Intestinal dysfunction significantly impacts clinical outcomes in undernutrition.
• Limited human studies using modern tools exist on the effects of experimental starvation on the gut.
• Existing knowledge is derived from clinical observations and animal models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current knowledge on the gastrointestinal changes associated with starvation and undernutrition.
• To highlight the need for further research using advanced techniques to understand gut derangements in undernutrition.
• To emphasize the clinical relevance of gut health in undernourished individuals.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical reports, clinical observations, and experimental studies in humans and animals.
• Analysis of data on intestinal atrophy, achlorhydria, permeability, and absorption during starvation.
• Consideration of findings from animal models (rats, pigs) of starvation and malnutrition.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests intestinal atrophy and achlorhydria in starvation.
• Short-term starvation may reduce sugar absorption but not intestinal permeability.
• Animal models show hypersecretory states, barrier defects, and prolonged diarrhea in starved states.

Conclusions:

• Significant gastrointestinal changes occur during starvation and undernutrition.
• Further investigation using cellular and molecular techniques is crucial for a comprehensive understanding.
• Addressing the interaction between undernutrition and gastrointestinal damage is vital given its prevalence.