Feed A Cold, Starve A Fever: Debunk The Myths And Get Professional Care In London

The phrase feed a cold, starve a fever has been repeated for generations, but it is not reliable medical advice. If you have come down with a cold, sore throat, or fever, what your body needs most is supportive care based on symptoms, hydration, rest, and when appropriate, professional treatment. At Junction Pharmacy, we support winter healthcare in Camberwell with practical advice, the flu jab, and Pharmacy First services for eligible sore throat treatment.

If you are feeling unwell and want fast, local support, contact us or drop in for professional support.

Where The Saying Comes From

The saying is often traced back to older ideas about illness and digestion. Historically, people believed certain illnesses required “cooling” or “heating” the body through food choices. Over time, that became simplified into the idea that you should eat more during a cold and eat less during a fever.

The problem is that colds and fevers vary widely in severity and cause. Colds are usually viral upper respiratory infections, while a fever is a symptom that can occur with many infections, including flu. Your body’s needs do not neatly change based on whether the illness is labelled a cold or fever.

What Science Says Now

Modern guidance does not support starving yourself during a fever. When you are unwell, your immune system is working harder, and your body may need energy and fluids. Appetite often decreases naturally, which is fine, but deliberately restricting food can make you feel weaker and slow recovery.

What matters more than forcing food is:

–> Staying well hydrated

–> Eating small, easy-to-digest meals if you can tolerate them

–> Resting and allowing recovery

–> Managing symptoms safely

If you have a cold, eating nourishing meals can support recovery, but it will not “feed” the illness. If you have a fever, you do not need to starve. The priority is hydration and monitoring for warning signs.

If you are unsure whether your symptoms are a cold, flu, or something else, contact us – or book your flu jab today!

What To Do Instead Of Following The Myth

A better approach is to respond to your symptoms and focus on the basics that genuinely support recovery.

Helpful actions include:

–> Drink fluids regularly, especially water, warm drinks, and oral rehydration fluids if needed

–> Choose light meals if appetite is low, such as soups, yoghurt, porridge, or toast

–> Aim for protein and nutrient-rich foods when you feel able

–> Rest, and avoid pushing through exhaustion

–> Use appropriate over-the-counter medicines for symptom relief when suitable

Fever can increase fluid loss through sweating, so hydration becomes even more important. If you are vomiting, unable to keep fluids down, or you feel faint, you should seek urgent medical advice.

Cold Vs Flu: Why It Matters

Many people assume they have a “bad cold” when it may be flu. Flu often comes on suddenly and can cause high fever, body aches, weakness, and significant fatigue.

Cold symptoms more commonly include:

–> Runny or blocked nose

–> Sneezing

–> Mild sore throat

–> Mild cough

Flu symptoms more commonly include:

–> Fever and chills

–> Muscle aches

–> Marked fatigue

–> Headache

–> Dry cough

Flu can be serious, particularly for older adults, pregnant people, and those with underlying health conditions. One of the best ways to reduce risk is vaccination.

The Flu Jab And Preventing Winter Illness

The flu jab is one of the most effective steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting flu, and to lower the risk of severe illness if you do catch it. Vaccination is particularly important during colder months when viruses spread more easily indoors.

As part of our winter healthcare in Camberwell, Junction Pharmacy offers the flu jab with convenient access and professional support. If you want to protect yourself and your household, contact us to book an appointment.

Sore Throats And Pharmacy First Support

Sore throats are common in winter and are often caused by viral infections. However, some sore throats can be more severe, and it is not always obvious when treatment is needed.

Through Pharmacy First, eligible patients may be able to access assessment and treatment for sore throats without waiting for a GP appointment. This can be especially helpful when symptoms come on quickly or when you need reassurance and guidance.

When To Seek Medical Advice

Most colds and mild fevers settle with time and supportive care, but some symptoms need professional review.

Seek medical advice if you experience:

–> A fever that persists or is very high

–> Shortness of breath, chest pain, or wheezing

–> Signs of dehydration such as very dark urine or confusion

–> Severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or drooling

–> Symptoms that worsen after initially improving

–> A vulnerable person is unwell, such as an infant, older adult, or someone with a weakened immune system

If you are concerned about your symptoms, contact us to book an appointment and get tailored advice.

FAQs

Click on the FAQs below to reveal answers to questions often heard by our pharmacists:

Supporting Your Health, All Year Round

If you want expert support this winter, Junction Pharmacy is here to help with winter healthcare in Camberwell. Contact us to book an appointment for your flu jab, sore throat support through Pharmacy First, or advice on cold and fever symptoms.

This blog was written on behalf of Junction Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.