From Dailymail · · 1m 50s
Starve a fever, feed a cold: Winter bug eating guide
How to eat when sick: Why you shouldn't starve a fever but need to feed a cold.
In brief
How to eat when sick: Why you shouldn't starve a fever but need to feed a cold. Fevers increase metabolism, so eating small meals helps recovery; colds don't require extra calories. Originally reported by Dailymail.
Winter bug season
Flu cases in England reported higher than usual last month, earlier than previous four years.
The 'starve a fever, feed a cold' myth
This phrase is a well-known adage for a reason, but its application to winter bugs is misunderstood.
Professor Tregoning's explanation
Fevers and colds are immune responses to infections; high temperature helps clear viruses by slowing their growth.
Symptoms vary by individual
Symptoms depend on genetics and pre-existing conditions like asthma, affecting how severe infections become.
Appetite reduction during illness
Research shows immune responses trigger appetite loss through proteins that signal reduced food needs.
Ketone bodies and immunity
Reduced food intake may produce ketone bodies that fuel immune cells, but this is not universally helpful.
Dr. Molanguri's advice
Fever increases metabolism; eating small, frequent meals helps maintain nutrition and speeds recovery.
Calorie needs during illness
Energy expenditure increases by 10-13% per degree rise in body temperature, but mild colds don't require extra calories.
What to eat when sick
Protein supports antibody production; fluids help with mucus production and oxygen exchange in lungs.
Chicken soup and ginger
Lab studies show chicken soup and ginger may reduce viral infections, but human applications are unproven.
Ketogenic diet and immunity
Ketogenic diets or ketone bodies may boost immune cell function in lab settings, but human benefits are unclear.
Key takeaway
For mild colds, no extra calories are needed; for fevers, small frequent meals support recovery.
The bottom line
Fevers increase metabolism, so eating small meals helps recovery; colds don't require extra calories.
