Old Wives Tales for the Cold and Flu: True or False?
You have probably heard the phrase "feed a cold, starve a fever", but have you wondered if this, and other old wives tales, are true?
We scoured the internet and found studies to uncover the truth in the top 3 well-known old wives tales for treating the cold and flu:
Cold weather makes you sick Recent research is pointing to this being true. According to this article on Medical News Today, research shows winter time reduces levels in vitamin D and immune responses in mice, which demonstrate that chilly weather may make you more susceptible to getting sick. Studies also show that some viruses (like rhinovirus) thrive in the cold and that cool temps dry up mucus membranes, which can make it easier for viruses to invade.
Taking vitamin C prevents colds This is true if you are active, healthy, and take vitamin C every day, according to this post at Harvard Medical School. Studies found vitamin C can cut the likelihood of colds in half for active adults who take it everyday. Otherwise, taking 200 mg a day "reduced the duration of cold symptoms by an average of 8% in adults and 14% in children, which translated to about one less day of illness."
Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever Apparently, the jury is still out on this one as doctors and scientists are saying more research needs to be done. Some studies on mice show fasting may help fight bacterial infections but doesn't help with viral infections. In this article on Healthline, doctors suggest eating to keep energy up to fight colds and fevers. Doctors stress the importance of staying hydrated during sickness to prevent dehydration and maintain normal bodily functions.
Quick and Easy DIVINIA Mint Tea
2 cups of DIVINIA
16 fresh mint leaves
Optional: 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar (or honey)
Optional: lemon slices
1. Pour 2 cups of DIVINIA into a pot and bring to a boil on the stove (don't worry, heat does not alter the benefits of DIVINIA). 2. After the water boils, remove pot from heat and add fresh mint leaves. Let steep for about 4 minutes; you can leave it steep for a little longer for a stronger taste. 3. Add organic honey or sugar, if desired. 4. Pour tea into mugs and squeeze fresh, organic lemon to taste.
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