Besides the True Believer, Hoffer did an interview where he posited the most amazing idea. As a teenager, he experienced poverty and hunger. One time he had not eaten for several days and was very, very hungry. A sudden start, fright, scared him, and the next thing he knew he was no longer hungry. He began to wonder if hunger was an emotion, and could it be controlled?
Hoffer teaches many other lessons. Before the internet, when Hoffer wanted to begin research and learn about something new to him, he would access that section / subject in the library and read the shorter books first. I have used that technique ever since.
Anyone who has done some serious fasting can tell you that - after three days - the raging desire to eat leaves you. After that it is a matter of choice how long to continue the fast - up to about 40 days. Then the body turns on its own alarm and it is wise to comply. Of course water or fluids must be maintained on a daily basis.