<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article does not cite any sources . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (March 2012) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article does not cite any sources . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (March 2012) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> 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 . </P> <P> Due to the normal metabolic rate of humans catabolysis becomes life - threatening only after 1--2 months from the cessation of nutrition going into the body . After this time, the damage to muscles and organs can be permanent and can also eventually cause death, if left untreated . Catabolysis is the last metabolic resort for the body to keep itself--particularly the nervous system--functional . </P>

What happens when your body breaks down muscle