The World Record of Not Eating Food: The Angus Barbieri Fast
The world record for the longest period without solid food was set by Angus Barbieri, a 27-year-old Scottish man, who completed a 382-day medically supervised fast between June 1965 and July 1966. Barbieri, who weighed 456 pounds (207 kg) at the start, lost an incredible 276 pounds (125 kg) and reached his ideal weight of 180 pounds (82 kg). This remarkable feat was carefully monitored by doctors at Maryfield Hospital in Dundee, where he underwent regular check-ups.
How Barbieri Survived for Over a Year
During his extended fast, Barbieri was not completely deprived of all nourishment. He consumed a specific, carefully managed intake of fluids and supplements to keep his body functioning. His daily intake consisted of zero-calorie beverages such as:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Sparkling water
He also took multivitamins, electrolytes, and a small amount of yeast for essential amino acids. This allowed his body to survive primarily on its enormous fat reserves, a metabolic state known as ketosis, where the body burns fat for fuel instead of glucose. The initial plan was for a much shorter fast, but Barbieri's determination to reach his goal weight was so strong that he insisted on continuing. Doctors were amazed at how well his body adapted, with minimal negative effects.
The Dangers of Prolonged Fasting
While Barbieri's case is a fascinating medical anomaly, it is absolutely critical to understand that extreme, prolonged fasting is incredibly dangerous and should never be attempted without strict medical supervision. Guinness World Records no longer certifies this type of record to avoid encouraging unsafe behavior. The risks involved with long-term fasting are substantial and potentially fatal.
Common and severe risks include:
- Refeeding Syndrome: A life-threatening metabolic disturbance that can occur when nutrients are reintroduced too quickly after a period of starvation.
- Electrolyte Imbalances: Critically low levels of potassium, magnesium, and phosphate can lead to heart failure and other complications.
- Organ Damage: Prolonged starvation can cause damage to the heart, kidneys, and liver as the body begins to break down muscle tissue for energy once fat stores are depleted.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: A lack of essential vitamins and minerals can lead to severe health issues over time.
Barbieri vs. Hunger Strikers
The story of Angus Barbieri is often compared with cases of hunger strikers, but there are significant differences. Barbieri was not protesting and was under constant medical care, receiving supplements to mitigate harm. Hunger strikers, on the other hand, often refuse all sustenance, leading to a much shorter survival window. The physiological consequences are very different, as illustrated in the following table.
| Feature | Angus Barbieri's Fast | Typical Hunger Strike | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 382 days (medically monitored) | 45-61 days (documented deaths) | Barbieri's fast was significantly longer due to his excess fat reserves and medical support. |
| Intake | Water, tea, coffee, vitamins, electrolytes | Often only water (or sometimes no fluid) | Barbieri's careful supplementation was key to his survival. |
| Medical Supervision | Constant, with regular hospital check-ups | Often limited or intermittent, sometimes refused | The controlled environment was a crucial factor for Barbieri's survival. |
| Initial Body Weight | Morbidly obese (456 lbs) | Varies, but often average or slightly underweight | Barbieri's substantial fat stores were the primary energy source. |
| Outcome | Successful weight loss, maintained for years | Often fatal due to complications of starvation | The level of medical intervention and starting condition determine the outcome. |
What Happened After the Fast?
After his record-breaking fast, Barbieri broke his fast with a simple, solid breakfast of a boiled egg, a slice of buttered bread, and coffee. He told reporters that he had forgotten what food tasted like and that it “went down OK”. A 1973 study published in the Postgraduate Medical Journal showed that prolonged fasting had no apparent ill effects on him. He maintained a healthy weight for the rest of his life, with minimal weight regain. Angus Barbieri died in 1990 at the age of 51, having lived a fulfilling life after his incredible feat of endurance.
Conclusion: A Medical Marvel, Not a Diet Plan
Angus Barbieri's 382-day fast is a testament to the human body's remarkable ability to adapt and survive under extreme conditions, but it is a medical case study, not a blueprint for weight loss. The success of his fast depended on a unique set of circumstances: morbid obesity, the constant care of medical professionals, and the careful provision of electrolytes and vitamins. For the average person, prolonged, unsupervised fasting carries severe risks, including organ damage and death. Modern medical and nutritional advice strongly warns against attempting such dangerous feats. The enduring message of Barbieri's story is one of human resilience, but also a powerful warning about the dangers of extreme dieting without expert medical guidance.
