Introduction

Medical myths are everywhere—passed down through generations, repeated online, and sometimes even followed with the best intentions. One of the most persistent? “Starve a fever, feed a cold.” As board-certified emergency medicine physicians, we see firsthand how these well-meaning misconceptions can delay recovery or, worse, lead to preventable complications.

Here’s what you need to know about managing fevers and colds—based on current medical evidence and the experience of ER doctors who treat these issues every day.

The Origins of the Myth

The phrase “starve a fever, feed a cold” dates back centuries, rooted in outdated understandings of how illness and nutrition interact. The idea was that eating would “fuel” a cold but “starving” would somehow “burn out” a fever. Modern medicine tells a different story.

The Truth: Your Body Needs Fuel to Fight Illness

Fever is not the enemy—it’s a symptom. When you have a fever, your body’s immune system is working overtime to fight infection. This process requires energy and hydration.

• Starving yourself during a fever is counterproductive. Your body needs calories, fluids, and electrolytes to support immune function and prevent dehydration.

• Dehydration is the real risk. Fever increases fluid loss through sweating and rapid breathing. Not eating or drinking enough can quickly lead to complications, especially in children, older adults, and those with chronic illnesses.

Colds are caused by viruses that also put stress on the body. Good nutrition and hydration help you recover faster.

Evidence-Based Recommendations from ER Physicians

• Eat if you can. If you’re not nauseated, try to eat small, frequent meals. Focus on easy-to-digest foods: broths, fruits, toast, rice, and lean proteins.

• Hydrate aggressively. Water, electrolyte solutions, and clear fluids are essential. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen dehydration.

• Don’t force food if you’re nauseated or have no appetite. Focus on fluids until you can tolerate solids.

• Monitor for warning signs: persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, confusion, difficulty breathing, or very high fever (>104°F). These require immediate medical attention.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Not every fever or cold needs an ER visit—but some symptoms do require urgent evaluation. As emergency physicians, we recommend immediate consultation if you or a loved one experiences:

• Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dry mouth, minimal urination)

• Severe headache, stiff neck, or confusion

• Shortness of breath or chest pain

• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down

• High fever lasting more than 3 days

• Fever in infants under 3 months

How Hermes Health Helps

With Hermes Health, you have 24/7, direct access to board-certified ER physicians who can assess symptoms, prescribe medications, and help you decide when home care is safe—or when you need to escalate to in-person care. Our proprietary app allows you to message, call, or video chat with a doctor anytime, eliminating the guesswork and anxiety that comes with managing fevers and colds at home.

• Unlimited messaging for urgent questions

• Same-day imaging or expedited specialist referrals if needed

• Fast-track ER visits when in-person care is necessary

Key Takeaways

• There’s no medical reason to “starve a fever.” Nutrition and hydration are essential during any illness.

• Listen to your body: eat what you can, drink plenty of fluids, and seek help if symptoms worsen.

• Immediate access to emergency-trained physicians can prevent complications and unnecessary ER visits.