An Old Wive's Tale

     Feed a cold, starve a fever...or is it the other way around?  The origins of this adage can be traced all the way back to 1574 in a line from John Withals' dictionary that states, "Fasting is a great remedy of fever."

     It was the common belief at that time that eating food would help the body generate warmth during a "cold" and that avoiding food may help cool the body down when overheated by fever.  Today medical science advocates that in either case it is best to supply the body with nourishment.  In order to successfully fight off illness we need energy.  So eating healthy food helps us to accomplish that.  According to Scientific American, "fever is part of the immune system's attempt to beat the bugs."  An elevated body temperature increases metabolism, resulting in more calories being burned.  And for each degree of temperature the energy demand increases.  So taking in more calories is vital to restoring good health.

     We are in the peak of flu season right now.  Here are 4 healthy foods that can help you strengthen your body against colds and the flu, so says Melissa Valliant.

1. Ginger - This humble root spice is actually one of the strongest natural immune defenders available to us.  Cut off a small section of ginger root and drop it in a cup of boiling water.  Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes, then add a squeeze of lemon or some honey and drink up!



2. Garlic - This versatile and widely used member of the onion family is an immune system boosting powerhouse.  Cook with it, roast it, toss it in with a homemade salad dressing or eat it raw, but eat some any way you can.  2 cloves a day should keep the doctor away, but during flu season be sure to double your daily intake.





3. Thyme - This garden herb is a favorite and at the same time is also a powerful decongestant and cough & mucus reliever.  Create a "thyme steam" by tossing a bunch of thyme in a pot of boiling water, leave in the middle of the room or center of the kitchen table, and breathe in its gentle scent to relieve your upper respiratory tract.



4. Chicken Soup "Jewish Penicillin" - The ultimate embodiment of what is good for you.  This soup's broth can help build immunity, strengthen bones and hydrate your body, making it a super triple threat against the flu this season and all year round.