Feed a cold; starve a fever meaning

Feed a cold; starve a fever definitions

When it comes to the age-old advice of "feed a cold, starve a fever," there are a few things to consider. This phrase has been around for centuries, but is there any truth to it?

The Origins of the Phrase

The origins of "feed a cold, starve a fever" are murky, with some attributing it to a 16th-century dictionary. The idea behind the phrase is that when you have a cold, you should eat to keep up your strength, while with a fever, you should refrain from eating to starve the fever.

Feeding a Cold

When you have a cold, your body needs energy to fight off the virus, which is where the idea of feeding a cold comes from. Eating nutrient-rich foods such as chicken soup, fruits, and vegetables can help provide your body with the necessary nutrients to help you recover.

Starving a Fever

On the other hand, when you have a fever, your body is working overtime to fight off an infection. Some believe that by fasting when you have a fever, you can help your body focus its energy on fighting the infection rather than digesting food. However, it's essential to stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids when you have a fever.

While the phrase "feed a cold, starve a fever" may have some historical significance, it's essential to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional if you're unsure about the best course of action. Staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and eating nutritious foods can help support your immune system whether you have a cold or a fever.

Feed a cold; starve a fever Examples

1. When I have a cold, my mom always tells me to feed a cold; starve a fever by drinking plenty of fluids.
2. After catching a cold, I make sure to feed a cold; starve a fever by getting lots of rest and eating nourishing soups.
3. To fight off a cold, I follow the old saying of feed a cold; starve a fever and load up on vitamin C-rich foods.
4. My grandmother believes in the traditional remedy of feed a cold; starve a fever and always prepares a hearty chicken soup when I'm feeling under the weather.
5. During flu season, I remember the advice to feed a cold; starve a fever and take it easy until I recover.
6. Whenever I start feeling sick, I remind myself to feed a cold; starve a fever and avoid overeating to give my body a chance to fight off the illness.
7. I've heard that it's important to feed a cold; starve a fever to allow the body's immune system to work effectively.
8. My friend always follows the saying feed a cold; starve a fever and sticks to a simple diet of broths and herbal teas when she's sick.
9. An old wives' tale suggests to feed a cold; starve a fever, but modern medicine advises to listen to your body and eat as needed to maintain strength.
10. When my sister catches a cold, she prefers to feed a cold; starve a fever with warm honey lemon water and light meals.

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