You can survive without food for about 1 to 2 months, with many estimates suggesting around 3 weeks to 70 days depending on individual factors such as body fat, health, and hydration
. The body initially uses glucose and glycogen stores for energy, then shifts to breaking down fat through ketosis, and eventually muscle tissue if starvation continues
. There are extreme documented cases, such as Angus Barbieri, who survived 382 days without solid food under medical supervision, consuming only tea, coffee, water, soda water, and vitamins
. However, such prolonged fasting is very dangerous and not typical. Without water, survival is much shorter—usually only 3 to 5 days—since dehydration leads to rapid organ failure
. In summary:
- Typical survival without food (with water): 3 weeks to 2 months
- Extreme medically supervised fasting: up to 382 days (rare and risky)
- Without food and water: 3 to 5 days maximum
These durations vary widely based on individual health, environment, and hydration status
