Q: I often hear the saying, ‘feed a cold and starve a fever.’ Does this really work?
A: This common piece of advice suggests eating when you have a cold and holding back when you have a fever. But is it wise to skip meals if you have a fever? There’s little research on how diet affects your body’s ability to combat infections, and experts say you can likely disregard this old saying.
Dr. David Schneider, from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, calls it ‘just an old wives’ tale.’
Nevertheless, keep some food and drink guidelines in mind when you’re unwell.
WHAT FOOD CAN AND CAN’T DO
According to Benjamin Hurrell, a nutrition expert at the University of California, Davis, the advice doesn’t hold up because you can have both a cold and fever simultaneously. How would you manage eating in that case?
Another reason to doubt the saying is that good nutrition supports the immune system. Dr. Geeta Sood, from Johns Hopkins University, notes that undernourished individuals struggle more with infections. Proper nutrition helps maintain the immune system, although there’s little evidence that your diet while sick significantly impacts recovery.
Dr. Michael Hanak from Rush University Medical Center recommends nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables to meet energy needs when sick, especially with a fever. But if you’re not hungry, it’s okay to skip eating briefly. Seek medical attention if you feel very weak.
Dr. Sood mentions that vitamin or mineral supplements may not speed recovery. Some research indicates zinc might shorten colds, but it’s not conclusive. Despite claims about vitamin C, studies don’t support its effectiveness against colds.
Honey could help soothe coughs. A 2021 review found honey can reduce cough severity compared to placebos or treatments like Benadryl.
People with high blood sugar, such as those with unmanaged diabetes, may find it harder to fight infections because high glucose levels can feed bacteria, Dr. Sood adds.
FLUIDS ARE CRITICAL
Experts agree that staying hydrated is crucial when ill. Dr. Hanak suggests drinking two to four liters of fluids daily, avoiding dehydrating drinks like alcohol. Hydration helps thin mucus and eases congestion.
With a fever, hydration is even more critical due to fluid loss from sweat or diarrhea. Electrolyte drinks can replenish lost minerals, and if your fever is over 103 degrees or if you have other health conditions, consult a doctor.
Typically, fluids and rest are the best remedies for a cold or mild fever, Dr. Hanak advises.
‘Usually, you’ll recover,’ he concludes. ‘Perhaps a better saying for colds and flu is: ‘Time heals all wounds.”
The article originally appeared in The New York Times.
