“You should "feed a cold, starve a fever."”

The well-known saying about how to manage a cold versus a fever is a persistent piece of folk wisdom, but it doesn't hold up to modern scientific understanding. This adage, which suggests eating more when you have a cold and less when you have a fever, likely traces its roots back to ancient medical theories, possibly as far back as Hippocrates. During these times, medical understanding was based on concepts like "humors" and the idea that illnesses were either "hot" or "cold," leading to treatments aimed at balancing these perceived states. For instance, it was thought that eating could generate warmth to combat a "cold" body, while withholding food could "cool" down a feverish one. The first known publication of the adage appeared in John Withals' 1574 dictionary, noting "fasting is a great remedie of feuer."

However, contemporary medical science has debunked this simplistic approach. Whether you're battling a cold or a fever, your body is actively fighting an infection, and this process demands energy and nutrients. The immune system requires adequate calories, vitamins, and minerals to produce antibodies, fuel immune cells, and repair tissues. Restricting food intake during a fever, therefore, can actually weaken your body and hinder its ability to recover effectively. While some small-scale studies have explored immune responses to eating versus fasting, the general consensus is that both conditions benefit from proper nourishment and, crucially, plenty of fluids.

The myth's enduring popularity may stem from several factors. When experiencing a fever, a reduced appetite is a common symptom, which might make the idea of "starving" seem like a natural response. Additionally, the rhyming nature of the phrase makes it catchy and easy to remember, contributing to its transmission through generations as an accepted piece of health advice. Despite its long history and widespread belief, the most beneficial approach for both colds and fevers is to stay well-hydrated and consume nutritious foods as your appetite allows, providing your body with the essential fuel it needs to get well.