Is it true that you should feed a cold and starve a fever. What are the facts behind this popular saying. How should you really treat colds and fevers. What other common medical myths need debunking.

The Origins of “Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever”

The saying “feed a cold, starve a fever” has been circulating for centuries, with its origins potentially dating back to 1574. John Withals, a dictionary writer, noted that “fasting is a great remedy of fever.” Despite its longevity, modern medical science has largely debunked this advice. But why has this myth persisted for so long?

The staying power of this adage likely stems from the common experience of losing appetite when ill. Many people notice a decreased desire to eat when feverish, which may have reinforced the idea that abstaining from food could be beneficial. However, contemporary medical understanding paints a different picture.

The Truth About Treating Colds and Fevers

According to experts at Cedars-Sinai and Harvard Medical School, there’s no need to alter your eating habits significantly when you have a cold or fever. Your immune system requires energy and nutrients to function optimally, regardless of the type of illness you’re battling. The key focus should be on maintaining adequate hydration and nutrition.

Hydration: The Universal Remedy

Whether you’re dealing with a cold or a fever, staying hydrated is crucial. Both conditions can lead to dehydration, making fluid intake essential. Water, clear broths, and electrolyte-rich drinks can help replenish lost fluids and support your body’s healing processes.

Nutrition During Illness

Should you force yourself to eat when sick? While it’s important not to starve yourself, it’s equally important to listen to your body. Eating small, nutrient-dense meals can provide the energy your immune system needs without overwhelming your digestive system. Foods rich in vitamins C and D, as well as zinc, can be particularly beneficial in supporting immune function.

Common Misconceptions About Colds and Fevers

Beyond the “feed a cold, starve a fever” myth, there are several other misconceptions about treating common illnesses. Let’s explore and debunk some of these:

• Green or yellow mucus indicates a bacterial infection
• Going outside with wet hair causes colds
• Fever is always dangerous
• Milk increases mucus production

Contrary to popular belief, the color of mucus does not reliably indicate the type of infection. Viral infections can produce colored mucus just as bacterial ones can. The duration of symptoms is a more reliable indicator of whether you might need antibiotics.

As for wet hair and cold weather, they don’t directly cause colds. Viruses are the culprits behind colds, though cold weather may indirectly contribute by keeping people indoors where germs spread more easily.

Understanding Fever: Friend or Foe?

Is fever dangerous? In most cases, fever is actually a sign that your body is fighting infection effectively. It’s a natural defense mechanism that can help combat pathogens. However, very high fevers or those in young children may require medical attention.

When to Worry About Fever

At what point should a fever be considered concerning? For adults, a temperature above 103째F (39.4째C) or a fever lasting more than three days warrants a call to the doctor. For infants and young children, the threshold for concern is lower, and parents should consult pediatric guidelines or their healthcare provider.

Treating Fever at Home

How can you manage fever symptoms at home? Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and alleviate discomfort. However, it’s important to remember that these medications treat the symptoms, not the underlying cause of the fever.

Debunking Other Medical Myths

Medical misinformation isn’t limited to colds and fevers. Let’s examine some other common health myths:

1. Butter on burns helps healing
2. You must keep someone with a head injury awake
3. Cracking knuckles causes arthritis
4. Reading in dim light damages your eyes
5. You need to wait 24 hours to report a missing person

Applying butter to burns is not only ineffective but can actually worsen the injury by trapping heat. For minor burns, cool running water is the best immediate treatment.

Regarding head injuries, while severe cases require immediate medical attention, it’s not necessary to keep someone with a minor head injury awake. Normal sleep is generally fine, provided the person is breathing normally and responsive when awake.

The Role of Nutrition in Fighting Illness

While “feed a cold, starve a fever” may not be sound advice, nutrition does play a crucial role in supporting your immune system. What foods should you prioritize when you’re under the weather?

Immune-Boosting Foods

Certain foods are known for their immune-supporting properties. These include:

• Citrus fruits (high in vitamin C)
• Garlic (contains allicin, a compound with antimicrobial properties)
• Ginger (may help reduce inflammation)
• Yogurt (contains beneficial probiotics)
• Leafy greens (rich in various vitamins and antioxidants)

Incorporating these foods into your diet, especially when you’re feeling under the weather, may help support your body’s natural defense mechanisms.

The Importance of Balanced Nutrition

While certain foods may have immune-boosting properties, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet overall. A varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides the wide range of nutrients your body needs to function optimally, including during times of illness.

The Science Behind Symptom Relief

Understanding the mechanisms behind common cold and flu symptoms can help in managing them more effectively. Let’s explore some of the science behind symptom relief:

Nasal Congestion

Why does nasal congestion occur during a cold? Congestion is typically caused by inflammation in the nasal passages, not by excess mucus as commonly believed. This is why decongestants, which work by reducing inflammation, can be effective.

Fever

How does fever help fight infection? Elevated body temperature can inhibit the growth of some pathogens and increase the activity of immune cells. This is why completely suppressing a fever may not always be beneficial.

Cough

What’s the purpose of a cough during illness? Coughing is a reflex that helps clear the airways of irritants, including excess mucus. While persistent coughing can be uncomfortable, it serves an important function in recovery.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most colds and mild fevers can be managed at home, there are times when professional medical care is necessary. What are the signs that you should consult a healthcare provider?

• Fever above 103째F (39.4째C) in adults or any fever in young infants
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• Confusion or inability to arouse
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Symptoms that improve but then return or worsen

These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that requires professional evaluation and treatment. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

The Future of Cold and Fever Treatment

As medical science advances, our understanding of how to treat common illnesses continues to evolve. What new developments are on the horizon for managing colds and fevers?

Targeted Antiviral Therapies

Research is ongoing into more specific antiviral treatments that could potentially shorten the duration of viral infections like the common cold. While we’re not there yet, future treatments may be able to target specific viral strains more effectively.

Immunomodulatory Approaches

Scientists are exploring ways to boost the body’s natural immune responses to fight off infections more efficiently. This could lead to treatments that work with the body’s defenses rather than simply masking symptoms.

Personalized Medicine

Advances in genetic testing and personalized medicine may eventually allow for more tailored approaches to treating infections based on an individual’s unique genetic makeup and immune profile.

While these developments are exciting, it’s important to remember that basic self-care practices like rest, hydration, and proper nutrition remain fundamental to managing colds and fevers effectively.

Practical Tips for Managing Colds and Fevers

Armed with accurate information about colds and fevers, what are some practical steps you can take to manage these common ailments?

Rest and Recovery

Giving your body time to rest is crucial when fighting off an infection. Adequate sleep allows your immune system to work more effectively. How much rest do you need? While individual needs vary, aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and don’t hesitate to nap during the day if you feel the need.

Hydration Strategies

Staying hydrated is vital, but what are the best ways to ensure adequate fluid intake when you’re ill? Consider these options:

• Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty
• Consume clear broths or soups
• Try herbal teas, which can be soothing and hydrating
• Use electrolyte-rich drinks if you’re experiencing significant fluid loss

Symptom Management

While over-the-counter medications can provide relief, there are also natural remedies that may help alleviate symptoms:

• Use a saline nasal spray to relieve congestion
• Try honey for soothing a sore throat or cough
• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can help with congestion
• Apply a warm compress to relieve sinus pressure

Remember, these remedies are meant to provide comfort and support your body’s natural healing processes, not to cure the underlying infection.

The Role of Prevention in Managing Colds and Fevers

While knowing how to treat colds and fevers is important, preventing them in the first place is even better. What steps can you take to reduce your risk of falling ill?

Hand Hygiene

Proper hand washing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections. How should you wash your hands for maximum effectiveness? Use soap and water, scrub for at least 20 seconds, and be sure to clean all surfaces of your hands, including between fingers and under nails.

Vaccination

Staying up to date with vaccinations, particularly the annual flu shot, can significantly reduce your risk of certain infections. Are there any new developments in vaccination technology? Research into universal flu vaccines and improved cold virus vaccines is ongoing, potentially offering broader protection in the future.

Lifestyle Factors

Your overall health plays a crucial role in your body’s ability to fight off infections. What lifestyle choices can support a strong immune system?

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Exercise regularly
• Manage stress through techniques like meditation or yoga
• Get adequate sleep
• Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can help bolster your body’s natural defenses against common illnesses.

The Impact of Environmental Factors on Colds and Fevers

While internal factors like nutrition and rest play a significant role in managing colds and fevers, environmental factors can also influence your susceptibility to illness and your recovery process. What environmental considerations should you keep in mind?

Indoor Air Quality

The air you breathe can have a substantial impact on your respiratory health. How can you improve indoor air quality to support recovery and prevent illness?

• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove airborne particles
• Regularly clean and replace HVAC filters
• Keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to discourage mold growth and reduce viral transmission
• Open windows periodically to allow fresh air circulation

Temperature and Humidity

Does temperature really affect your chances of catching a cold? While cold weather itself doesn’t cause colds, it can create conditions that favor viral transmission. Dry air, often a result of indoor heating in winter, can dry out nasal passages, making them more susceptible to infection. Maintaining proper indoor humidity can help counteract this effect.

Exposure to Sunlight

Sunlight exposure can impact your immune function through vitamin D production. How much sunlight do you need? While individual needs vary, aim for about 10-30 minutes of midday sun exposure several times a week, keeping in mind the importance of skin protection.

By considering these environmental factors alongside personal health practices, you can create a more comprehensive approach to managing and preventing colds and fevers.

The Psychological Aspect of Illness Management

The mind-body connection plays a significant role in how we experience and recover from illnesses like colds and fevers. How can your mental state influence your physical recovery?

Stress and Immune Function

Chronic stress can suppress immune function, potentially making you more susceptible to infections. What stress management techniques can support your immune health?

• Practice mindfulness meditation
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Maintain social connections
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy for persistent stress

The Placebo Effect in Symptom Management

The placebo effect can play a role in how we perceive and manage symptoms. How can you harness this effect positively? While it’s important not to rely solely on placebos, maintaining a positive outlook and believing in the effectiveness of your treatment plan can potentially enhance your recovery experience.

Social Support During Illness

Having a strong support system can positively impact your recovery process. How can social connections benefit your health? Social support can reduce stress, provide practical assistance, and even boost immune function. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends and family when you’re feeling under the weather.

By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of illness, you can create a more holistic approach to managing colds, fevers, and other common ailments.

Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever? The Truth about Medical Myths

Featured Expert:

• Rachel Dawkins

Medical myths about how to best treat fever, fight colds or manage injuries are everywhere, sometimes handed down through generations. Rachel Dawkins, M.D., from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital clarifies fact from fiction.

Feed a cold, starve a fever?

False. Both fevers and colds can cause dehydration. It’s best to make sure kids drink plenty of liquids when they are sick. It’s also OK to eat if you have fever. Good nutrition may help keep your child from feeling as run down while they are sick. Also it’s OK to drink milk while sick. It does not cause phlegm.

Does green or yellow mucus signal bacterial infection or sinusitis?

False. The color of snot has nothing to do with the type of infection. This is probably the most common misconception. The color is dependent on dead white blood cells and how long they’ve sat in the nasal passage. Sinus infections should not typically be diagnosed based on color of snot. If you’ve been sick for more than 10-14 days then it’s a good idea to see your doctor.

If you go outside with wet hair, will you catch a cold or pneumonia?

False. Cold weather and wet hair don’t cause colds. Viruses do. It’s common to get colds in the wintertime because in most parts of the country people are stuck inside in closer quarters—unable to get away from the germs of sick friends or relatives.

Is fever dangerous?

False (for the most part). Fever is the body’s natural way to fight off infection. It does not melt the brain or cause brain damage. Fever is a symptom of an illness. Medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help comfort a child with fever but it won’t treat the underlying illness. No need to put the child in an ice bath or rub down with rubbing alcohol if they have fever. The exception is heat stroke. If your child is experiencing heat stroke that is a medical emergency.

Should you put butter on a burn to help stop pain?

False. This is actually the most dangerous of all the urban legends. Butter and other ointments trap the heat to the skin and can make the burn worse. If your child has a mild burn, run the injury under cool water and seek medical attention.

Should you keep a child with a head injury awake?

Not necessarily. First of all, if your child has a severe head injury or losses consciousness, seek immediate medical attention. If your child has a minor head injury, it’s OK for your child to go to sleep as they usually would. Waking a sleepy child or trying to keep a sleepy child awake only makes the entire family cranky. If your child is otherwise breathing and acting normally, let him or her sleep. Again, please call your doctor or go to the emergency room if you are unsure.

The Johns Hopkins All Children’s General Pediatric clinics in St. Petersburg and Sarasota, Florida, provide primary care services that focus on the treatment and prevention of common conditions for children from newborns to adolescents. We offer a wide range of outpatient services, including routine checkups, treatment of minor illnesses, immunizations and care for behavioral problems.

Learn more about the General Pediatrics clinic

Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever: Fact or Fiction?

“Feed a cold, starve a fever.”

There’s a pretty good chance you’ve been on the receiving end of this advice, or perhaps you’ve given it. After all, this bit of popular wisdom has been around for centuries. But is it true? Does this advice really hold any weight?

In this article, we’ll explore basic self-care for a cold, the flu, and fever. And we’ll look into whether fasting is really a helpful strategy to help you get back on your feet when you have a fever.

Several websites, including Smithsonian.com and Scientific American, say it can be traced as far back as 1574. Apparently, that’s when a dictionary writer named John Withals wrote, “fasting is a great remedy of fever.”

Wherever it came from, it has become firmly entrenched in popular culture, and is still a popular piece of advice today.

It’s not unusual to lose your appetite when you’re sick. At times, not eating seems to help, but sometimes it can make you feel that much weaker. So, should you really starve a fever?

Not according to the medical experts at Cedars-Sinai, who call it fiction. Cold or flu, your immune system needs energy and nutrients to do its job, so eating and getting enough fluids is essential.

Harvard Medical School agrees, saying that there’s no need to eat more or less than usual if you have a cold or flu. Both institutions stress the importance of fluids.

Colds and flu are usually caused by a viral infection, but a fever can happen for many reasons, including:

• a bacterial infection
• inflammatory conditions
• side effect of some medications and vaccines
• dehydration or heatstroke

So, that brings up the next question: Does it matter what’s causing the fever? Are there some types of fever that should be starved?

A 2002 study suggested that eating nutrient-rich broth may help fight viral infections, while fasting may help the immune system fight bacterial infections. It’s worth noting that it was a small study, involving only six young, healthy males. Study authors acknowledged the need for more research.

In a 2016 study, researchers also found fasting to be helpful in fighting bacterial but not viral infections. However, this study was conducted on mice, not people.

There simply hasn’t been enough “feed a cold, starve a fever” research done on humans to know for certain. It’s further complicated by the fact that there are so many causes of a fever.

So, it’s probably best to eat when your stomach can handle it and to go light on food when it can’t. Either way, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Colds and flu are both caused by viruses and they have common symptoms, like congestion and body aches. Flu symptoms tend to be more severe and involve fever.

Colds must run their course, but there are some things you can do to ease the symptoms.

• Drink lots of fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can lead to dehydration.
• If you smoke, try to stop until your head clears up. Stay away from secondhand smoke if you can.
• Use a humidifier to moisten the air.
• Continue to eat healthy foods.

You can choose from over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as:

• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for relief of aches and pains, like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or aspirin
• a decongestant or antihistamine to clear your head
• a cough suppressant to ease the symptoms of a cough
• throat lozenges to help soothe a sore, scratchy throat

Take these medications according to package instructions. If you have any concerns about mixing OTC products or how they’ll interact with your other medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

If necessary, your doctor can prescribe stronger medicines to help control cough and congestion. Antibiotics do nothing for the common cold, since they don’t work on viruses.

Compared with a cold, the flu typically takes a lot more out of you, especially when you’re running a fever. You can try the same self-care measures as you would for a cold, plus:

• See your doctor if you’re at risk of complications due to a weakened immune system or conditions like asthma, heart disease, or diabetes.
• Take antiviral medications if prescribed.
• Get plenty of rest. Don’t go to work or school until your temperature has been normal for 24 hours.

Because flu is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help. The exception would be when complications of the flu lead to a secondary bacterial infection.

Even if you don’t have much of an appetite, you need energy to fight the flu. You don’t have to eat as much as usual, but it’s important to choose helpful foods.

If you have nausea and vomiting, try a little broth and dry crackers until it passes. Vomiting and diarrhea can get worse if you drink fruit juices, so stick to water until your stomach is stronger.

If you’ve got a fever, it means your immune system is fighting an infection. A low-grade fever may go away on its own within a few days.

To treat a fever:

• Stay hydrated with water, juice, or broth.
• Eat when you feel hungry and your stomach can tolerate it.
• Avoid bundling up too much. Although fever makes you feel chilled, overbundling can raise body temperature.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Take OTC NSAIDs.

If you have a fever that lasts more than a few days, see your doctor. Whether it’s the flu or not, you may need more than home remedies.

Most people don’t need to see a doctor for the common cold or a mild bout of the flu. Call your doctor if your symptoms last more than a week and there’s either no sign of improvement, or if your symptoms start getting worse.

Also, call your doctor if your temperature is 103°F (39.4°C) or higher, or if your fever is accompanied by:

• a severe headache, light sensitivity
• stiff neck or pain when you bend your head forward
• new or worsening skin rash
• persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, or pain when urinating
• breathing problems or chest pain
• confusion, convulsions, or seizures

Research has yet to confirm the centuries-old adage “feed a cold, starve a fever. ” One thing we know for sure is that when you’re sick, staying hydrated is crucial.

We also know that your body needs nutritional support to fight illness. So, if you have a fever and you haven’t lost your appetite, don’t deprive yourself. Try to focus on eating foods that will give your body the nutrients it needs to get better.

When in doubt about what to do for a fever, talk to your healthcare provider.

Feeding a cold, starving a fever: fact or fiction?

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“Cold, fever.”

It is likely that you have received this advice or may have given it. After all, this folk wisdom has existed for several centuries. But is it? Does this advice really matter?

In this article, we will look at the main ways to treat colds, flu and fevers. And we’ll take a look at whether fasting is actually a useful strategy to help you get back on your feet when you’re having a fever.

content

How did this proverb start?

Several websites, including Smithsonian. com and Scientific American, let’s say this can be traced back to 1574. Apparently, at the time, a dictionary compiler named John Whitals wrote that “fasting is an excellent remedy for fever.”

Wherever it comes from, it is firmly rooted in popular culture and is popular advice today.

Is that correct?

Appetite is often lost during illness. Sometimes food doesn’t seem to help, but sometimes it can make you feel a lot weaker. So, do you really have to starve your fever?

Not according to medical experts at Cedars-Sinai who call it fantasy. Cold or flu, your immune system needs energy and nutrients to do its job, so it’s important to eat and drink enough.

Harvard Medical School he agrees, saying there is no need to eat more or less than usual if you have a cold or the flu. Both institutions emphasize the importance of fluids.

Colds and flu are usually caused by a viral infection, but fever can occur for a number of reasons, including:

• bacterial infection
• inflammatory conditions
• side effects of certain drugs and vaccines
• dehydration or heat stroke

So the next question is: Does it matter what causes fever? Are there any types of fever for which you should fast?

A 2002 study suggests that eating nutrient-rich soup may help fight viral infections, and fasting may help the immune system fight bacterial infections. It is worth noting that this was a small study involving only six young healthy men. The authors of the study acknowledged the need for more research.

U 2016 studyResearchers also found that fasting may help fight bacterial but not viral infections. However, this study was conducted in mice, not humans.

There just wasn’t enough research to “starve the fever” in humans to know for sure. This is further complicated by the fact that there are so many causes of fever.

So it’s probably best to eat when your stomach can handle it and snack lightly when it can’t. Either way, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

What is the best treatment for cold, flu and fever symptoms?

Colds and flu are caused by viruses and share common symptoms such as nasal congestion and body aches. Flu symptoms are more severe and include fever.

Cold treatment

A cold should go away, but there are some things you can do to help relieve the symptoms.

• Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
• If you smoke, try to quit until your head clears up. Stay away from smoking if you smoke.
• Use a humidifier to humidify the air.
• Keep eating healthy.

You can choose from over-the-counter medicines such as:

• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and pain relief, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or aspirin
• a decongestant or antihistamine for head cleaning
• cough medicine to relieve cough symptoms
• throat lozenges to help soothe sore, scratchy throat

Take these medicines according to package directions. If you have any doubts about mixing over-the-counter drugs or their interactions with other drugs, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

If needed, your doctor may prescribe stronger medicines to help control your cough and nasal congestion. Antibiotics do nothing for colds because they don’t work on viruses.

Treating the flu

Compared to the common cold, the flu usually takes a lot more away from you, especially when you have a fever. You can try the same self-harm measures as for a cold, plus:

• Talk to your doctor if you’re at risk for complications from a weakened immune system or a condition like asthma. heart disease, or diabetes.
• Take antivirals if prescribed.
• Get a good rest. Do not go to work or school until your temperature has been normal for 24 hours.

Since influenza is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not help. The exception is when influenza complications lead to a secondary bacterial infection.

Even if you don’t have much of an appetite, you need energy to fight the flu. You don’t have to eat as much as you normally would, but it’s important to choose healthy foods.

If you have nausea and vomiting, try some soup and dry crackers until it goes away. Vomiting and diarrhea can get worse if you drink fruit juices, so stick to water until your stomach gets stronger.

Treating fever

If you have a high fever, your immune system is fighting an infection. Subfebrile temperature can go away on its own in a few days.

For fever:

• Drink water, juice or soup.
• Eat when you feel hungry and your stomach can handle it.
• Avoid overwiring. Although you feel cold due to a fever, excessive bloating can raise your body temperature.
• Get a good rest.
• Take an over-the-counter NSAID.

If you have a fever that lasts more than a few days, see your doctor. Whether it’s the flu or not, you may need more than home remedies.

When should I see a doctor?

Most people do not need to see a doctor because of a cold or mild flu. Call your doctor if symptoms persist for more than a week and show no improvement, or if symptoms get worse.

Call your doctor if your temperature is 103°C or higher or if you have a fever:

• severe headache, sensitivity to light
• neck stiffness or pain when bending your head forward
• new or worsening skin rash
• persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, or pain when urinating
• trouble breathing or chest pain
• confusion, convulsions, or convulsions

Essence

Research has not yet confirmed the age-old adage “feed the cold, starve the fever. ” One thing we know for sure: when you’re sick, it’s extremely important to stay hydrated.

We also know that your body needs nutritional support to fight disease. So, if you have a fever and have not lost your appetite, do not deprive yourself. Try to focus on eating foods that will give your body the nutrients it needs to heal.

If you have any doubts about what to do about a fever, talk to your doctor.

Is it worth feeding a cold and starving a fever? – Drink-Drink

“Feed the cold, starve the fever.”

It is likely that you received this advice, or perhaps gave it yourself. After all, this piece of folk wisdom has been around for centuries. But is it? Does this advice really matter?

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of self-care for colds, flu, and fevers. And we’ll see if fasting is actually a useful strategy to help you get back on your feet when you’re having a fever.

How did this saying begin?

Several websites, including Smithsonian. com and Scientific American, say it can be traced back to 1574. Apparently, it was then that a dictionary author named John Whithals wrote: “Fasting is an excellent remedy for fever.”

Wherever it comes from, it is firmly rooted in popular culture and is still popular advice today.

Is this true?

It is not unusual to lose appetite during illness. Sometimes it seems that not eating helps, but sometimes it can make you feel a lot weaker. So, do you really have to starve your fever?

No, according to medical experts at Cedars-Sinai who call it a hoax. Cold or flu, your immune system needs energy and nutrients to do its job, so it’s important to eat and drink enough.

Harvard Medical School agrees, saying there is no need to eat more or less than usual if you have a cold or the flu. Both institutions emphasize the importance of fluids.

Colds and flu are usually caused by a viral infection, but fever can occur for many reasons, including:

• bacterial infection
• inflammatory disease
• side effect of certain drugs and vaccines
• dehydration or heat stroke

So the next question is: does it matter what causes fever? Are there any types of fever that should be fasted?

A 2002 study suggested that eating nutrient-rich broth may help fight viral infections, and fasting may help the immune system fight bacterial infections. It is worth noting that this was a small study that included only six young healthy men. The authors of the study acknowledged the need for more research.

In a 2016 study, researchers also found that fasting helped fight bacterial but not viral infections. However, this study was conducted in mice, not humans.

There just haven’t been enough “feed the cold, starve the fever” studies done on humans to know for sure. This is further complicated by the fact that there are so many causes of fever.

So it’s probably best to eat when your stomach can handle it, and eat less when it can’t. Either way, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

What is the best treatment for cold, flu and fever symptoms?

Colds and flu are caused by viruses and share common symptoms such as nasal congestion and body aches. Flu symptoms are usually more severe and include fever.

Treating a cold

A cold should take its course, but there are some things you can do to help relieve symptoms.

• Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can cause dehydration.
• If you smoke, try to quit until your head clears up. Stay away from secondhand smoke if you can.
• Use a humidifier to humidify the air.
• Keep eating healthy.

You can choose from over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, such as:

• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve) or aspirin
• decongestant or antihistamine to clear your head
• cough medicine to relieve cough symptoms
• throat lozenges to soothe a sore and scratchy throat

Take these medicines according to package directions. If you have any concerns about mixing over-the-counter drugs or their interactions with other medicines, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

If needed, your doctor may prescribe stronger medicines to help control your cough and nasal congestion. Antibiotics do nothing for a cold because they don’t work on viruses.

Treating the flu

Compared to a cold, the flu usually takes a lot more energy out of you, especially when you have a fever. You can try the same self-care measures as for a cold, plus:

• See your doctor if you are at risk for complications from a weakened immune system or conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes.
• Take antivirals if prescribed.
• Enough time to rest. Do not go to work or school until your temperature has been normal for 24 hours.

Since influenza is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not help. The exception is when influenza complications lead to a secondary bacterial infection.

Even if you don’t have much of an appetite, you need energy to fight the flu. You don’t have to eat as much as you normally would, but it’s important to choose healthy foods.

If you have nausea and vomiting, try some broth and dry crackers until it goes away. Vomiting and diarrhea can get worse if you drink fruit juices, so stick to water until your stomach gets stronger.

Fever treatment

If you have a fever, your immune system is fighting an infection. Subfebrile temperature can go away on its own within a few days.

For fever:

• Drink water, juice or broth.
• Eat when you feel hungry and your stomach can tolerate it.
• Avoid tying too much. Although a fever makes you feel chilly, over-wrapping can raise your body temperature.
• Enough time to rest.
• Take an over-the-counter NSAID.

If you have a fever that lasts more than a few days, see your doctor. Whether it’s the flu or not, you may need more than home remedies.

When should I see a doctor?

Most people do not need to see a doctor if they have a cold or mild flu. Call your doctor if your symptoms last more than a week and either show no improvement, or if your symptoms start to get worse.