"Starve a cold, feed a fever" is an old saying that suggests different approaches to eating during illness. The phrase originates from a 1571 dictionary entry by John Withals, which stated, "Fast a cold, starve a fever." Over time, the wording evolved to its current form.
The idea behind the saying is that you should eat less when you have a cold (to "starve" it) and eat more when you have a fever. The rationale is that a cold is caused by a virus and may be exacerbated by eating, while a fever is the body's way of fighting infection and requires more energy.
The saying distinguishes between two common types of illnesses:
One common misconception is that you should drastically reduce food intake during a cold. In reality, your body needs nutrients to fight off infections. Another mistake is thinking that fevers always require increased food intake, when sometimes rest and hydration are more important.
According to the Mayo Clinic, staying hydrated and consuming balanced meals can help your body recover faster from both colds and fevers. For instance, foods rich in vitamin C, like citrus fruits, can support immune function.
If you have a cold with a runny nose and sore throat, drinking plenty of fluids and eating light, nutrient-rich meals like vegetable soup can be beneficial. However, if you have a fever due to the flu, eating a balanced meal with proteins and carbohydrates can provide the energy your body needs to fight the infection.
I once had a cold that lasted for a week. Instead of starving myself, I drank herbal tea and ate small meals throughout the day. This helped me stay energized and recover faster. When I had a fever due to food poisoning, I focused on eating bland foods like toast and bananas, which were easier on my stomach.
The saying "starve a cold or a fever" offers traditional advice, but modern medicine recommends staying hydrated and eating nutritious foods during both illnesses. Understanding the differences between colds and fevers can help you make informed decisions about your health.