From the Guidelines
Rabbit starvation, a form of malnutrition, occurs when an individual consumes a diet lacking adequate fat and carbohydrates, despite sufficient protein intake, leading to severe health complications. This condition is characterized by the body's inability to process protein alone for all its energy needs, resulting in symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue, and eventually serious health complications 1. The human body requires a balance of macronutrients, and while protein is essential, consuming it in excess without other energy sources forces the liver to work overtime converting protein to glucose, producing toxic nitrogen waste products.
Key factors contributing to malnutrition, as seen in conditions like Crohn's disease, include reduced oral intake, malabsorption, increased nutrient losses in the gastrointestinal tract, and increased nutrient requirements or drug–nutrient interactions 1. Malnutrition can be caused by various factors, including:
- Reduced oral intake
- Malabsorption
- Increased nutrient losses in the gastrointestinal tract
- Increased nutrient requirements
- Drug–nutrient interactions
To avoid rabbit starvation and malnutrition, a balanced diet should include adequate fats and carbohydrates alongside protein. The recommended macronutrient distribution for most adults is approximately:
- 45-65% carbohydrates
- 20-35% fats
- 10-35% protein of total daily calories, though individual needs may vary 1. In patients with malnutrition, nutritional support should be initiated to address modifiable risk factors, reduce postoperative complications and morbidity, and improve overall outcomes 1.
From the Research
Protein Deficiency due to Malnutrition (Rabbit Starvation)
- Protein deficiency due to malnutrition, also known as "rabbit starvation," occurs when an individual consumes a diet that is excessively high in protein and low in fat and carbohydrates, leading to an imbalance of nutrients in the body 2, 3.
- This condition can cause a range of health problems, including hyperaminoacidemia, hyperammonemia, hyperinsulinemia, nausea, diarrhea, and even death 3.
- The risk of protein poisoning is particularly high when consuming lean meats, such as rabbit, which are low in fat and high in protein 2.
- Research suggests that the human body has a limited capacity to process excess protein, and consuming more than 35% of total energy intake from protein can lead to protein toxicity 3.
- A diet that is balanced and provides adequate amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates is essential to prevent protein deficiency and promote overall health 4, 5.
- In rabbits, starvation and refeeding can have significant effects on blood and liver biochemistry, highlighting the importance of adequate nutrition for maintaining health 5.
- Selective feeding and inadequate diet can also lead to health problems in rabbits, emphasizing the need for a balanced and nutritious diet 6.