Cold and Flu Fables
Cold Myths Exposed Christina Parrella
Don't Catch a Cold
Grandma and mom have it all wrong. Those cautionary tales they've been feeding you about why you're catching colds and the flu are nothing more than myths. 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.
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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 is 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 that 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 overdue it. There is no evidence that chomping down on extra Vitamin C during the will be able to cure your sniffles, sneezes and drips.
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 flemmy cough, but not curing a cold.
Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever:
Is it feed a fever 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 its sick so drink plenty of water and juice and eat sensibly so that you satisfy your appetite. Hydration and rest is the best recuperation for your body, according to Dr. Carter.
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