Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever
In 2002, a Dutch research team conducted an informal experiment in an attempt to find scientific evidence that supports the “feed a cold, starve a fever ” adage. The outcome of their research suggests that “eating a meal boosts the type of immune response that destroys the viruses responsible for colds, while fasting stimulates the response that tackles the bacterial infections responsible for most fevers.” These findings are inconclusive, however, and should not be regarded as fact.
The truth, as physicians know well, is that it is important to feed your body the nutrients it needs to sustain overall good health. When you are ill, it is even more important to provide your body with the fuel it needs to combat the viruses that are causing your illness. Supplying your body with vitamins and nutrients that assist your immune system is crucial to becoming well again.
Overeating is also never recommended. During times of illness, eating too much can enhance symptoms already associated with your sickness, like nausea and vomiting. The healing process is affected as well because overeating puts unnecessary strain on your digestive organs and immune system.
As you can see, it is not practical to feed a cold and starve a fever. Instead, physicians should advise anyone fighting off these illnesses to eat light, healthy foods, drink plenty of fluids, and get as much rest as possible.
Sources:
- www.vicks.com
- www.newscientist.com
- www.cbsnews.com
- http://ask.yahoo.com