Gopal Sharma Gopal Sharma Asked 5 months ago

What's the old saying starve a cold feed a fever?

My grandmother always used to say, 'starve a cold, feed a fever'. I've heard it many times, but I always wondered where it came from. What's the origin or meaning behind the old saying 'starve a cold, feed a fever'?

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7 answers

Anjali Sharma Anjali Sharma Joined May 2026 5 months ago
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Oh, I've heard this one too! Always wondered if it was actually true or just an old wive's tale. Like, does starving a cold really make it go away faster? And for fever, aren't you supposed to eat light?

Sanjay Kapoor Sanjay Kapoor Joined Jul 2026 3 months ago

Honestly, I think these are just sayings. For a cold, I always eat proper ghar ka khana and drink hot liquids. For fever, light food, lots of fluids, and rest is key. Doesn't matter if it's 'starving' or 'feeding', just good sense.

Priya Deshmukh Priya Deshmukh Joined Apr 2026 5 months ago

Yaar, I think the 'starve a cold' part is actually a bit risky. Your body needs energy to fight infection. For fever, 'feed a fever' makes sense 'coz you lose a lot of energy. But yeah, simple, light food, not heavy stuff, right?

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Consult a internal medicine specialist

Neha Singh Neha Singh Joined Jan 2026 5 months ago

My nani always used to say this! But I feel like it's more about how you feel. When I have a cold, I crave hot soups and a little comfort food. With a fever, I can barely eat, so light liquids are best. Just listen to what your body is asking for, generally.

Rohit Kumar Rohit Kumar Joined Apr 2026 5 months ago

Look, don't overthink these old sayings too much. When you're sick, whether cold or fever, just eat nourishing food your body can digest easily. Daal-chawal, khichdi, soups. And lots of water. That's it.

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Ashok Reddy Ashok Reddy Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Honestly, I once tried to 'starve a cold' thinking I was being smart, and it just got worse. My energy levels dropped so low. Just listen to your body, eat light but nutritious food. If you feel really unwell, please see a doctor. Don't make my mistake.

Meena Agarwal Meena Agarwal Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

These sayings are from old times, don't rely too much on them. If you have a bad cold or high fever, it's always best to consult a doctor. They can tell you what food is best for your specific condition. Safety first.

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