Debunked Health Myths And Old Wive's Tales

Starve A Fever, Feed A Cold

In the past, people believed the old wives tale that you should feed a cold and starve a fever, which dates back to a 1574 dictionary by John Withals. Although, modern doctors put this myth to a quick rest, claiming it should be “feed a cold, feed a fever.”

The truth is, colds are caused by viruses and require plenty of rest and fluids to get over them. Continuing to drink a lot of fluids and eating nutritious meals will help your body fight off the virus. As for starving a fever, it is never a good idea to starve yourself, especially while your immune system is already weak. When your body is fighting off illnesses, it needs plenty of energy, which can be provided by the food you eat.

So don’t starve your fever, but continue reading to find out whether or not vegans and vegetarians are starving themselves of protein.