Why do you have to starve for more than 24 hrs before your surgery?

Usually clear liquids like water are permitted up to 6 hours prior to
surgery and full liquids 8 hrs and solid foods 12 hours prior to surgery to
prevent aspiration (vomitus goes down windpipe to lungs). This period is
determined by the anesthesiologist and
an important safety step which could save your life in some cases.

Just some miscommunication; nothing to eat or drink after 12 PM ( 8 hours before surgery).  An empty stomach   at the time of surgery will help prevent food “going the wrong way” to the lungs.  Best wishes.