Tarrare: The Human Garbage Disposal Who Horrified Doctors

Tarrare was born in 1770s France with an appetite that defied medical explanation. As a teenager, he could eat a meal meant for 15 people and still be hungry. His parents kicked him out because they couldn't afford to feed him, so he joined a traveling freak show where he ate corks, stones, live animals, and anything else audiences would pay to see him swallow.

But his act was nothing compared to what happened when he joined the French army. Military doctors were fascinated and horrified - they watched him devour live cats, snakes, lizards, and puppies without chewing. He ate an entire eel in one gulp. He would eat garbage, rotting meat, and drink the blood of hospital patients. His body temperature was abnormally hot, he sweated constantly, and witnesses said  ...