In this podcast episode, the hosts tackle the myth of "feed a cold, starve a fever." They explore the saying's origins, revealing that it once served as a caution against letting a cold escalate into a fever. Today, however, medical experts agree that starving a fever is not the way to go. Instead, it's crucial to stay hydrated and nourished, particularly with calories, to help the body fight off illness. A study from the Netherlands found that fasting can negatively affect interferon gamma levels, which are vital for battling infections. Although fasting increased interleukin-4 levels, this does not support starvation as an effective strategy since our immune system needs different responses. The key takeaway? If you’re feeling unwell, listen to your body — eat when you're hungry and make hydration a priority.
