Do you know whether to feed a cold or starve a fever? This is one of the most common phrases when it comes to treating illnesses, but few people know whether or not there is any truth in it. If you are wondering about the answer, you have come to the right place.
The short answer to the question is that the whole saying is a myth. You definitely do not need to follow the recommendation to feed a cold or starve a fever.
This saying probably came about because people who have a fever typically do not feel like eating anything and those with a cold (which usually does not come with a fever) will still have an appetite. But this is not always true in either case.
The best thing to do when you have a fever or a cold is to drink plenty of fluids. If you aren't hungry, then don't worry about eating. As long as you are drinking enough water, you should be fine without eating much for a few days.
A few things to keep in mind about eating and drinking when you are sick:
- Drink more than you usually should, that means more than 8 8-ounce glasses of water a day.
- Drink water or sports drinks, which replace electrolytes.
- Do not drink caffeinated drinks (sodas, teas, coffee) because they only increase your chances of dehydration.
- Do not drink alcohol, it will dehydrate you and also interacts with many over the counter cold medications.
- If you feel like eating, go for it, but don't overdo it.
Source:
"Cold and Flu Guidelines: Myths and Facts." American Lung Association Diseases A to Z. 2007. American Lung Association. 26 Feb 2007.
