Catabolysis

Catabolysis
A Vietnamese man, showing signs of starvation.
Specialty	Endocrinology
Causes	Malnutrition

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Catabolysis is a biological process in which the body breaks down fat and muscle tissue in order to stay alive. Catabolysis occurs only when there is no longer any source of protein, carbohydrate, or vitamin nourishment feeding all body systems; it is the most severe type of malnutrition.