Cold and Flu Fables

Cold and Flu Myths

Christina Parrella
Don't Catch a Cold

Grandma and mom have it all wrong. It's time you learned the truth about those old wives' tales about feeding a fever and starving a cold. These nasty cold creations and flu fables have no scientific backing and we'll prove it by debunking these classic myths.

Unzipped Jacket

Ever come down with a nasty winter bug and think it was because you didn't have your jacket zipped up? Well you're wrong. Dr. Wallace Carter, Director of Emergency Medicine Residency Program at New York Presbyterian Hospital says this myth, like many others, is scientifically invalid. Catching a cold or the flu may be more common during the fall and winter seasons, but it has nothing to do with exposure to cold weather, or having your jacket open.

Wet Hair

Just because you leave your house with your hair wet doesn't mean you're going to get sick. The common cold and flu are caused by viruses, not by exposure to cold air or going out with wet hair, Dr. Carter explains.

Flu Shot

One of the biggest myths around is that the flu shot will give you the virus it's supposed to protect you against -- but it won't. One thing to keep in mind is the vaccine takes two to four weeks to work, therefore you are still vulnerable during this time. The flu changes each season but there are only a few variations of it, so Dr. Carter encourages the vaccination for high levels of immunity.

Vitamin C

Many people think that taking large doses of vitamin C can prevent you from catching a cold or the flu during winter months. It is important to get your daily dose of vitamin C, but don't overdo it. There is no evidence that chomping down on extra vitamin C during the cold season will be able to cure your sniffles, sneezes and drips. For an orange treat, try this Mongolian Strawberry-Orange Juice Smoothie.

Chicken Soup

Chicken soup gets a better rap than it should. This popular home remedy works because its ingredients (water, salt, chicken and noodles) fuel your body the best when you're sick. Unfortunately, when it comes to the flu or a cold, chicken soup has no medical influence over either virus. "Grandma is good, but she's not that good," Dr. Carter says. Chicken soup is best for soothing a scratchy throat or easing a phlegmy cough, but not curing a cold.

Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever

Is it feed a fever and starve a cold or the other way around? Either way, if you feel sick, don't choose one of these extremities as your guide to wellness. Your body needs more fluids when you're sick so drink plenty of water and juice and eat sensibly so that you satisfy your appetite. Hydration and rest are the best methods of recuperation for your body, according to Dr. Carter.