How Long Can a Person Survive With Just Water?

Verifiable Record

The longest a person has ever been known to survive with only water is 73 days, which Kieran Doherty accomplished in 1981 before he died of starvation. However, most people will not be able to survive this long. Magician David Blaine quit after 44 days with just water.

Physical Differences

People with low body fat and muscle mass will be able to survive less time with just water than somebody who is bigger. A pound of body fat contains 3,600 calories and provides a person about two days worth of energy. Differences in metabolism also affect survival time.

Bottom Line

Medical doctors generally suggest that people can survive between four and six weeks without water. Thin people or those with high metabolism may not be able to last this long, and more obese people with low metabolism may be able to survive longer.

References

• New Scientist: Maxed Out: How Long Could You Survive Without Food or Drink?
• Discovery News: Man Claims to Survive Without Food
• Survival Topics: How Long Can You Live Without Food?