Ketosis during Fasting in Eskimos

In 1928 (1) and again in 1931 (2) evidence was presented indicating that fasting Eskimos show a lesser degree of ketosis than normal persons living in the temperate zone. The period of fasting in 1928 was of 72 hours duration; in 1931 in two subjects it was 96 hours, in two others, 115 hours. The results showed that some measure of ketosis developed in all subjects, but was only appreciable in two lactating women, one of whom was also pregnant. The fasting periods were relatively short and it was realized that if the opportunity should present itself’ it would be advisable to secure data covering longer fasts. There existed the possibility that Eskimos would then show the same degree of ketosis as persons do here. The present report contains the data secured from the analysis of urine samples2 collected from three persons during a 7 day fast. The experiment was conducted at Pangnirtung, Baffin Island (latitude 66”). Three full blooded Eskimo women (Nookingah, Eto, and Martha) were chosen as subjects. Their ages were respectively 39, 18, and 14 years. Their weights were approximately 130, 120, and 110 pounds and the state of nutrition of all was similar. Prior to the experiment their diet was partly mixed because they were receiving supplies to supplement their own food from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police stores. This fact is reflected in their relatively low nitrogen output at the beginning of the fast. During the fasting period they were quartered in a recently constructed Anglican mission hospital and carefully