Clinical framework 2: a time scale for hunger strikes
If doctors involved in hunger strikes are to be in an authoritative position to state the ethical principles that apply to the situation, they need to have baseline definitions founded on nutritional physiology. Once the dietary requirements of fasting have been defined, it is necessary to define time limits at both ends of the hunger strike.
Skipping a meal or two may well be a form of food refusal – and therefore a form of protest – but such short-lived, episodic fasting does not qualify for the term hunger strike, which implies fasting over a longer duration of time.
When does ketosis normally occur? Tick one box
later than 72 hours
after 48 - 72 hours
after 32 - 48 hours