Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsWhat Is and Isn’t True?What to EatWays to Break a Fever
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
What Is and Isn’t True?
What to Eat
Ways to Break a Fever
Many believe the saying “feed a cold, starve a fever” began withHippocrates(around 400 B.C.) and lasted until the early 1900s.This was before the discovery that germs cause disease. During this time, most people thought the source of illness was an odor, an evil spirit, or the weather.One belief was that cold weather caused a cold and hot weather caused a fever.The saying became popular due to a belief that eating extra would generate warmth with a cold, while avoiding food (starving) would cool the body down from a fever.There is somecorrelation between certain illnesses and cold weather, but it’s not because the cold weather causes the illness. Instead, people tend to spend more time indoors, making it easier to spread germs.This article reviews facts regarding eating with colds and fevers and ways to break, not starve, a fever.AimeeLeeStudios / Getty ImagesFeed a Cold, Starve a Fever: What Is and Isn’t True?The adage “feed a cold, starve a fever” has some truth to it. You should eat (but not overeat) when you have a cold.But the “why” differs from the beliefs of previous eras. The body needs food for energy and nutrition, not to warm up to fight the cold.What Causes a Fever?Feversare typically the immune system’s response to an invading pathogen (germ). When your body detects a germ, it triggers a fever as a defense mechanism, making it more difficult for that germ to survive. Sometimes medications or being in a hot environment for an extended time can causean increase in your core body temperature, too.However, the concept of starving a fever has no merit. No scientific evidence suggests that you should starve yourself, regardless of whether you have a fever or a cold.Nutrition and fluids help you keep up with caloric demands and avoiddehydration. Starving yourself depletes the body of essential nutrients, calories, energy, and muscle mass.Evidence showsintermittent fasting (IF)could help boost the immune system. However, experts who recommend or follow this practice do not condone starvation. They encourage adequate nutrition during eating windows to maintain health.What About COVID-19?COVID-19and the flu are viruses that can cause higher fevers than the viruses that cause the common cold. Despite the degree of fever, proper nutrition and hydration are always important.How to Eat With a Cold or FeverInstead of overeating or starving yourself, focus on eatingnutrient-rich foods for a coldor fever to help your body fight the infection.When you are sick, you may not be hungry or want to eat due to nausea. It can be helpful to start with bland foods like dry cereal, oatmeal, or crackers. You can also follow the “BRAT diet,” which is an acronym for:BananasRiceApplesauceToastEating small, frequent meals helps prevent nausea and maintain your energy levels. If your stomach is up to it, try eating foods that contain:VitaminsA, D, C, and EMinerals such as zinc, copper, iron, and seleniumAmino acidsProteinsOmega-3 fatty acidsAntioxidants(things that prevent or delay cell damage)Thesenutrients fight infection, boost theimmune system, and help you maintain muscle mass. Eating a variety of the following nutrient-dense foods can help support your recovery when you have a cold or a fever:Chicken soup: Chicken soup, especially with bone broth and vegetables, is rich incollagen, vitamins, minerals, and protein. It also helps you reduce congestion and soothe a sore throat.Fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, cherries, tomatoes, apricots, red bell peppers, blackberries, and cantaloupe are all good sources of antioxidants, vitamins (includingvitamin C), and minerals.Vegetables: Vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, and spinach are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help support the immune system.Garlic:Garlichas antibacterial and antiviral properties.Fructans: Bananas are a healthy source offructans, which have antiviral properties. Other healthy sources of fructans include garlic, onions, chicory, asparagus, and artichokes.Legumes: Legumes such as lentils and chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein, zinc, and vitamin B.Salmon: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids andvitamin D, which help the immune system block virus replication.Nuts and seeds: Cashews, brazil nuts, walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are rich in minerals. Chia and flaxseeds are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids and protein.Fermented foods:Fermented foods, such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, contain beneficial bacteria that can help improve intestinal (gut) health and boost the immune system.Turmeric:Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.Ginger:Gingerhelps reduce inflammation, sore throat, and nausea.Honey:Honeyhas antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help alleviate a cough and soothe a sore throat.Foods to AvoidAvoid the following foods as they can make it harder to fight infection, worsen dehydration, and interrupt sleep:Sugary foods or drinksProcessed foodsAlcoholCaffeineDairy products have a lot of great vitamins and minerals, but they can worsen your congestion if you have a cold. If you don’t have congestion—or if dairy is not worsening the congestion you have—continue eating these foods as part of a balanced diet.Other Ways to Break, Not Starve, a FeverAfeveris the body’s natural response to fighting off infections such as colds and flu.Healthcare providers grade fevers as mild, high, and very high. For adults, the general guidelines are as follows:Low-grade fever: 99.5 degrees F to 100.4 degrees FFever: 100.4 degrees F or higherHigh-grade fever: 103 degrees FVery high or dangerous: Above 105 degrees FIf you have a low-grade fever that is causing you discomfort, the following tips can helpbreak it.Cool compress: Place a cool, damp cloth on the forehead, under the arms, behind the neck, or on the wrists.A lukewarm (not too hot or cold) bath or shower: Avoid extremely cold, ice, or alcohol baths because they can be dangerous.Keep your body cool: Avoid excess blankets, sweaters, or jackets, and keep the room pleasantly cool.Over-the-counter (OTC) fever reducers (antipyretic): OTC medications such as Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen) or Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help to reduce fever and help relieve cold symptoms.Rest: Give your body the time and rest it needs to fight off the infection and reduce fever.Drink plenty of fluids: Drink fluids to help avoid dehydration and keep mucus thin.Water, ice chips, ice pops, soup, gelatin, clear broths, and herbal teas are all good choices. Avoid overly hot beverages or broth.If your fever persists for an extended period or reaches a high temperature, seek medical attention from a healthcare professional.Normal Body Temperature: What Is Considered High or Low?SummaryThe saying “feed a cold, starve a fever” is an adage and is inaccurate. You should eat a nutrient-rich, balanced diet whether you have a fever, cold (virus), or bacterial infection. Starving yourself weakens the immune system and deprives the body of essential nutrients. Avoid overeating as it can make it harder for the body to digest foods and lead to discomfort.There is no need to force yourself (or someone else) to eat when you don’t feel good. But, consider bland foods and drink plenty of fluids. Consider a cool compress or OTC fever reducers if you have a fever. Seek medical attention if your symptoms or fever persist or worsen.
Many believe the saying “feed a cold, starve a fever” began withHippocrates(around 400 B.C.) and lasted until the early 1900s.This was before the discovery that germs cause disease. During this time, most people thought the source of illness was an odor, an evil spirit, or the weather.One belief was that cold weather caused a cold and hot weather caused a fever.
The saying became popular due to a belief that eating extra would generate warmth with a cold, while avoiding food (starving) would cool the body down from a fever.There is somecorrelation between certain illnesses and cold weather, but it’s not because the cold weather causes the illness. Instead, people tend to spend more time indoors, making it easier to spread germs.
This article reviews facts regarding eating with colds and fevers and ways to break, not starve, a fever.
AimeeLeeStudios / Getty Images
Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever: What Is and Isn’t True?
The adage “feed a cold, starve a fever” has some truth to it. You should eat (but not overeat) when you have a cold.
But the “why” differs from the beliefs of previous eras. The body needs food for energy and nutrition, not to warm up to fight the cold.
What Causes a Fever?Feversare typically the immune system’s response to an invading pathogen (germ). When your body detects a germ, it triggers a fever as a defense mechanism, making it more difficult for that germ to survive. Sometimes medications or being in a hot environment for an extended time can causean increase in your core body temperature, too.
What Causes a Fever?
Feversare typically the immune system’s response to an invading pathogen (germ). When your body detects a germ, it triggers a fever as a defense mechanism, making it more difficult for that germ to survive. Sometimes medications or being in a hot environment for an extended time can causean increase in your core body temperature, too.
However, the concept of starving a fever has no merit. No scientific evidence suggests that you should starve yourself, regardless of whether you have a fever or a cold.
Nutrition and fluids help you keep up with caloric demands and avoiddehydration. Starving yourself depletes the body of essential nutrients, calories, energy, and muscle mass.
Evidence showsintermittent fasting (IF)could help boost the immune system. However, experts who recommend or follow this practice do not condone starvation. They encourage adequate nutrition during eating windows to maintain health.
What About COVID-19?COVID-19and the flu are viruses that can cause higher fevers than the viruses that cause the common cold. Despite the degree of fever, proper nutrition and hydration are always important.
What About COVID-19?
COVID-19and the flu are viruses that can cause higher fevers than the viruses that cause the common cold. Despite the degree of fever, proper nutrition and hydration are always important.
How to Eat With a Cold or Fever
Instead of overeating or starving yourself, focus on eatingnutrient-rich foods for a coldor fever to help your body fight the infection.
When you are sick, you may not be hungry or want to eat due to nausea. It can be helpful to start with bland foods like dry cereal, oatmeal, or crackers. You can also follow the “BRAT diet,” which is an acronym for:
Eating small, frequent meals helps prevent nausea and maintain your energy levels. If your stomach is up to it, try eating foods that contain:
Thesenutrients fight infection, boost theimmune system, and help you maintain muscle mass. Eating a variety of the following nutrient-dense foods can help support your recovery when you have a cold or a fever:
Foods to AvoidAvoid the following foods as they can make it harder to fight infection, worsen dehydration, and interrupt sleep:Sugary foods or drinksProcessed foodsAlcoholCaffeineDairy products have a lot of great vitamins and minerals, but they can worsen your congestion if you have a cold. If you don’t have congestion—or if dairy is not worsening the congestion you have—continue eating these foods as part of a balanced diet.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid the following foods as they can make it harder to fight infection, worsen dehydration, and interrupt sleep:Sugary foods or drinksProcessed foodsAlcoholCaffeineDairy products have a lot of great vitamins and minerals, but they can worsen your congestion if you have a cold. If you don’t have congestion—or if dairy is not worsening the congestion you have—continue eating these foods as part of a balanced diet.
Avoid the following foods as they can make it harder to fight infection, worsen dehydration, and interrupt sleep:
Dairy products have a lot of great vitamins and minerals, but they can worsen your congestion if you have a cold. If you don’t have congestion—or if dairy is not worsening the congestion you have—continue eating these foods as part of a balanced diet.
Other Ways to Break, Not Starve, a Fever
Afeveris the body’s natural response to fighting off infections such as colds and flu.Healthcare providers grade fevers as mild, high, and very high. For adults, the general guidelines are as follows:
If you have a low-grade fever that is causing you discomfort, the following tips can helpbreak it.
If your fever persists for an extended period or reaches a high temperature, seek medical attention from a healthcare professional.
Normal Body Temperature: What Is Considered High or Low?
Summary
The saying “feed a cold, starve a fever” is an adage and is inaccurate. You should eat a nutrient-rich, balanced diet whether you have a fever, cold (virus), or bacterial infection. Starving yourself weakens the immune system and deprives the body of essential nutrients. Avoid overeating as it can make it harder for the body to digest foods and lead to discomfort.
There is no need to force yourself (or someone else) to eat when you don’t feel good. But, consider bland foods and drink plenty of fluids. Consider a cool compress or OTC fever reducers if you have a fever. Seek medical attention if your symptoms or fever persist or worsen.
17 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Smith J.A is for aphorisms - feed a fever, starve a cold? Or could it be starve a fever, feed a cold?.Australian Family Physician. 2015;44(1-2):77–78.National Research Council (US) Committee to Update Science, Medicine, and Animals.A theory of germs. In: Science, Medicine, and Animals. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004.Scientific American.Fact or fiction? Feed a cold, starve a fever.Cedars Sinai.Testing cold and flu advice.Walter E J, Hanna-Jumma S, Carraretto M, Forni L.The pathophysiological basis and consequences of fever.Critical Care. 2015;20(200). doi:10.1186/s13054-016-1375-5Marik PE.Nutritional support among medical inpatients—Feed the cold (and malnourished) and starve the febrile.JAMA Netw Open.2019;2(11):e1915707. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.15707Thirumdas R, Kothakota A, Pandiselvam R, Bahrami A, Barba FJ.Role of food nutrients and supplementation in fighting against viral infections and boosting immunity: A review.Trends in Food Science & Technology. 2021;110:66-77. doi:10.1016/j.tifs.2021.01.069Paul AK, Lim CL, Apu MA, et al.Are fermented foods effective against inflammatory diseases?International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2023;20(3):2481. doi:10.3390/ijerph20032481Kuwabara Y, Hirose A, Lee H, Kakinuma T, Baba A, Takara T.Effects of highly bioavailable curcumin supplementation on common cold symptoms and immune and inflammatory functions in healthy Japanese subjects: A randomized controlled study.Journal of Dietary Supplements. 2023:1-28. doi:10.1080/19390211.2023.2185723Anh NH, Kim SJ, Long NP, et al.Ginger on human health: A comprehensive systematic review of 109 randomized controlled trials.Nutrients. 2020;12(1):157. doi:10.3390/nu12010157Samarghandian S, Farkhondeh T, Samini F.Honey and health: A review of recent clinical research.Pharmacognosy Research. 2017;9(2):121-127. doi:10.4103/0974-8490.204647MedlinePlus.Fever.Frosh A, Cruz C, Wellsted D, Stephens J.Effect of a dairy diet on nasopharyngeal mucus secretion.The Laryngoscope. 2018;129(1):13-17. doi:10.1002/lary.27287MedlinePlus.Fever: Pyrexia.National Library of Medicine (NIH) National Center for Biotechnology Information.How is body temperature regulated and what is fever?UpToDate.Patient education: Fever in children (beyond the basics).American Lung Association.Facts about the common cold.
17 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Smith J.A is for aphorisms - feed a fever, starve a cold? Or could it be starve a fever, feed a cold?.Australian Family Physician. 2015;44(1-2):77–78.National Research Council (US) Committee to Update Science, Medicine, and Animals.A theory of germs. In: Science, Medicine, and Animals. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004.Scientific American.Fact or fiction? Feed a cold, starve a fever.Cedars Sinai.Testing cold and flu advice.Walter E J, Hanna-Jumma S, Carraretto M, Forni L.The pathophysiological basis and consequences of fever.Critical Care. 2015;20(200). doi:10.1186/s13054-016-1375-5Marik PE.Nutritional support among medical inpatients—Feed the cold (and malnourished) and starve the febrile.JAMA Netw Open.2019;2(11):e1915707. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.15707Thirumdas R, Kothakota A, Pandiselvam R, Bahrami A, Barba FJ.Role of food nutrients and supplementation in fighting against viral infections and boosting immunity: A review.Trends in Food Science & Technology. 2021;110:66-77. doi:10.1016/j.tifs.2021.01.069Paul AK, Lim CL, Apu MA, et al.Are fermented foods effective against inflammatory diseases?International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2023;20(3):2481. doi:10.3390/ijerph20032481Kuwabara Y, Hirose A, Lee H, Kakinuma T, Baba A, Takara T.Effects of highly bioavailable curcumin supplementation on common cold symptoms and immune and inflammatory functions in healthy Japanese subjects: A randomized controlled study.Journal of Dietary Supplements. 2023:1-28. doi:10.1080/19390211.2023.2185723Anh NH, Kim SJ, Long NP, et al.Ginger on human health: A comprehensive systematic review of 109 randomized controlled trials.Nutrients. 2020;12(1):157. doi:10.3390/nu12010157Samarghandian S, Farkhondeh T, Samini F.Honey and health: A review of recent clinical research.Pharmacognosy Research. 2017;9(2):121-127. doi:10.4103/0974-8490.204647MedlinePlus.Fever.Frosh A, Cruz C, Wellsted D, Stephens J.Effect of a dairy diet on nasopharyngeal mucus secretion.The Laryngoscope. 2018;129(1):13-17. doi:10.1002/lary.27287MedlinePlus.Fever: Pyrexia.National Library of Medicine (NIH) National Center for Biotechnology Information.How is body temperature regulated and what is fever?UpToDate.Patient education: Fever in children (beyond the basics).American Lung Association.Facts about the common cold.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Smith J.A is for aphorisms - feed a fever, starve a cold? Or could it be starve a fever, feed a cold?.Australian Family Physician. 2015;44(1-2):77–78.National Research Council (US) Committee to Update Science, Medicine, and Animals.A theory of germs. In: Science, Medicine, and Animals. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004.Scientific American.Fact or fiction? Feed a cold, starve a fever.Cedars Sinai.Testing cold and flu advice.Walter E J, Hanna-Jumma S, Carraretto M, Forni L.The pathophysiological basis and consequences of fever.Critical Care. 2015;20(200). doi:10.1186/s13054-016-1375-5Marik PE.Nutritional support among medical inpatients—Feed the cold (and malnourished) and starve the febrile.JAMA Netw Open.2019;2(11):e1915707. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.15707Thirumdas R, Kothakota A, Pandiselvam R, Bahrami A, Barba FJ.Role of food nutrients and supplementation in fighting against viral infections and boosting immunity: A review.Trends in Food Science & Technology. 2021;110:66-77. doi:10.1016/j.tifs.2021.01.069Paul AK, Lim CL, Apu MA, et al.Are fermented foods effective against inflammatory diseases?International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2023;20(3):2481. doi:10.3390/ijerph20032481Kuwabara Y, Hirose A, Lee H, Kakinuma T, Baba A, Takara T.Effects of highly bioavailable curcumin supplementation on common cold symptoms and immune and inflammatory functions in healthy Japanese subjects: A randomized controlled study.Journal of Dietary Supplements. 2023:1-28. doi:10.1080/19390211.2023.2185723Anh NH, Kim SJ, Long NP, et al.Ginger on human health: A comprehensive systematic review of 109 randomized controlled trials.Nutrients. 2020;12(1):157. doi:10.3390/nu12010157Samarghandian S, Farkhondeh T, Samini F.Honey and health: A review of recent clinical research.Pharmacognosy Research. 2017;9(2):121-127. doi:10.4103/0974-8490.204647MedlinePlus.Fever.Frosh A, Cruz C, Wellsted D, Stephens J.Effect of a dairy diet on nasopharyngeal mucus secretion.The Laryngoscope. 2018;129(1):13-17. doi:10.1002/lary.27287MedlinePlus.Fever: Pyrexia.National Library of Medicine (NIH) National Center for Biotechnology Information.How is body temperature regulated and what is fever?UpToDate.Patient education: Fever in children (beyond the basics).American Lung Association.Facts about the common cold.
Smith J.A is for aphorisms - feed a fever, starve a cold? Or could it be starve a fever, feed a cold?.Australian Family Physician. 2015;44(1-2):77–78.
National Research Council (US) Committee to Update Science, Medicine, and Animals.A theory of germs. In: Science, Medicine, and Animals. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004.
Scientific American.Fact or fiction? Feed a cold, starve a fever.
Cedars Sinai.Testing cold and flu advice.
Walter E J, Hanna-Jumma S, Carraretto M, Forni L.The pathophysiological basis and consequences of fever.Critical Care. 2015;20(200). doi:10.1186/s13054-016-1375-5
Marik PE.Nutritional support among medical inpatients—Feed the cold (and malnourished) and starve the febrile.JAMA Netw Open.2019;2(11):e1915707. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.15707
Thirumdas R, Kothakota A, Pandiselvam R, Bahrami A, Barba FJ.Role of food nutrients and supplementation in fighting against viral infections and boosting immunity: A review.Trends in Food Science & Technology. 2021;110:66-77. doi:10.1016/j.tifs.2021.01.069
Paul AK, Lim CL, Apu MA, et al.Are fermented foods effective against inflammatory diseases?International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2023;20(3):2481. doi:10.3390/ijerph20032481
Kuwabara Y, Hirose A, Lee H, Kakinuma T, Baba A, Takara T.Effects of highly bioavailable curcumin supplementation on common cold symptoms and immune and inflammatory functions in healthy Japanese subjects: A randomized controlled study.Journal of Dietary Supplements. 2023:1-28. doi:10.1080/19390211.2023.2185723
Anh NH, Kim SJ, Long NP, et al.Ginger on human health: A comprehensive systematic review of 109 randomized controlled trials.Nutrients. 2020;12(1):157. doi:10.3390/nu12010157
Samarghandian S, Farkhondeh T, Samini F.Honey and health: A review of recent clinical research.Pharmacognosy Research. 2017;9(2):121-127. doi:10.4103/0974-8490.204647
MedlinePlus.Fever.
Frosh A, Cruz C, Wellsted D, Stephens J.Effect of a dairy diet on nasopharyngeal mucus secretion.The Laryngoscope. 2018;129(1):13-17. doi:10.1002/lary.27287
MedlinePlus.Fever: Pyrexia.
National Library of Medicine (NIH) National Center for Biotechnology Information.How is body temperature regulated and what is fever?
UpToDate.Patient education: Fever in children (beyond the basics).
American Lung Association.Facts about the common cold.
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