How many calories does a fever burn?

Question

Been down with a fever for a couple of days now, feeling really weak. Someone mentioned that fevers make your body work harder and burn calories. Is that true, and how much exactly?

Sanjay Dutt · Accepted Answer

Please do not focus on calories when you have a fever. Last year, I ignored my rising body temperature thinking it was just a regular viral bug, and it turned into severe pneumonia. Fever causes a big metabolic strain, so you must consult a doctor immediately instead of worrying about energy expenditure.

Rahul Verma · Answer

When you have a fever, your metabolic rate actually goes up by about 10 to 13 percent for every degree rise in Celsius. But this is not 'healthy' burn, it's muscle wasting and severe dehydration if you don't eat. Forget the gym or dieting right now, just focus on simple khichdi and getting your strength back.

Amit Saxena · Answer

Listen, fever is a sign your body is fighting an infection, not a workout routine. Yes, the body works overtime and burns more energy, but you are also losing essential fluids. Keep quiet, drink plenty of water, and see a doctor if the temperature does not come down.

Sneha Patil · Answer

Oh, fever can really exhaust you! The body uses a lot of energy to fight the bug, which is why we feel so drained and lose a bit of weight temporarily. Just focus on resting and drinking warm soups, your body needs all the strength it can get right now.

Kavita Rao · Answer

I once thought my high fever and weight loss were just a temporary phase and delayed my lab tests. It turned out to be a severe typhoid infection that took me months to recover from. Please get checked by a doctor right away if your fever is high or persistent; calorie burn shouldn't be on your mind right now.

How many calories does a fever burn?

5 answers

Consult a dietary specialist

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