Does feeding a cold and starving a fever help speed up recovery from an illness?

The idea that one should 'feed a cold and starve a fever' is a common health myth. In reality, both a cold and a fever require adequate nutrition to help the body fight off the illness and speed up recovery.

When the body is fighting an infection, it requires extra energy and nutrients to help the immune system function properly. This means that during both a cold and a fever, it is important to eat a healthy and balanced diet to provide the body with the nutrients it needs to fight off the illness. Additionally, staying hydrated is also essential for both illnesses, as fluids help the body flush out toxins and maintain normal bodily functions.

While it is important to eat when you are sick, it is also important to listen to your body and not force yourself to eat if you are not feeling well. This is particularly true if you are experiencing nausea or digestive issues, as forcing yourself to eat can make these symptoms worse.