feed a cold, starve a fever

feed a cold, starve a fever

proverb Antiquated advice that suggests that someone with a cold should eat, while someone with a fever should fast. Most health experts now agree that "starving" is not the right course for either malady. My grandmother always said "feed a cold, starve a fever," but it's best to stay properly nourished even when you have a high temperature.
See also: feed, fever, starve
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

Feed a cold and starve a fever.

Prov. You should feed someone who has a cold, and withhold food from someone who has a fever.; (or, interpreted differently) If you feed someone who has a cold, that will ward off a fever. Jill: I don't feel like going out to lunch with you. I have a cold. Jane: All the more reason you should get something to eat. Feed a cold and starve a fever, you know.
See also: and, cold, feed, fever, starve
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • accompany (one) on a/(one's) journey
  • accompany on a journey
  • a stranger to (someone or something)
  • be out of (one's) league
  • be out of somebody's league
  • be in bad with (someone)
  • (one) puts (one's) pants on one leg at a time
  • bargain
  • bargain for (someone or something) with (someone)
  • brief (someone) about (someone or something)
References in periodicals archive
Research backs 'Feed a cold, starve a fever' GRANDMA'S advice to "feed a cold and starve a fever" might have an element of truth, say scientists.