NEW YORK, Oct 26 (Reuter) - The Dalai Lama ordered six Tibetans on Thursday to end a hunger strike that began 13 days ago outside the United Nations headquarters to coincide with the world body's 50th anniversary.

"It is extemely important that we remain guided by realism, practicality and patience in the pursuit of our freedom struggle," the Dalai Lama said in a statement from Dharamsala and given to demonstators. "I feel that the seriousness and the sincerity with which you have been undertaking your fast has in itself conveyed your message to the international community. I am, therefore, asking you to end your hunger strike."

The demonstrators said they were disappointed the United Nations had not met their demands of recognising Tibet as an occupied country and granting the Dalai Lama, the country's spiritual leader, observer status at the world body.

After singing and praying, supporters packed up their signs, mattresses and blankets under a tent outside the U.N. headquarters where world leaders attended a four-day special meeting that ended on Tuesday.

"I want to go on further," said hunger striker Tenzin Dangsong, 23. "I am really disgusted."

On Tuesday a protester called Yiga was taken to the hospital and immediately replaced by another woman. A doctor said each person on the fast lost 13 to 18 pounds.

China's People's Liberation Army took over Tibet in October 1950 and gained real control after a failed 1959 revolt. Buddhists dominated Tibet from the seventh century until 1959 when the Dalai Lama fled with many followers.