Fever is the body’s natural defense mechanism against infection. While you might feel miserable, your body is working hard to fight off the illness. To support this process and avoid making your symptoms worse, it's crucial to know what to avoid. This includes not only certain foods and beverages but also common, well-intentioned actions that can be counterproductive.
Foods to avoid with a fever
When your body is under stress from a fever, your digestive system also becomes more sensitive. Opting for nutrient-dense, easily digestible foods is best. The following food types should be limited or avoided altogether until you feel better.
Sugary foods and drinks
Excessive sugar intake can have a negative impact on your immune system. Your immune cells need vitamin C to function properly, but sugar molecules are structurally similar, and can be mistakenly absorbed by these cells instead. This can lead to a weaker immune response and fuel inflammation. This includes not just candy and baked goods, but also many fruit juices and sodas high in simple sugars.
Greasy and fatty foods
Fried and high-fat foods, like fast food, chips, and buttery dishes, are difficult for your body to digest. Digesting these heavier foods diverts energy and resources that your body could be using to fight the infection. The extra strain can also lead to stomach upset and discomfort, which you want to avoid when feeling unwell.
Spicy foods
While some people believe spicy foods can help clear congestion, they can also irritate your stomach lining and cause digestive discomfort, especially when your system is already sensitive from illness. Spicy foods can also potentially worsen coughing and throat irritation. It's best to stick to bland, soothing foods when you have a fever.
High-fiber grains (temporarily)
During a fever, some people's digestive systems are less efficient. While whole grains are typically healthy, they are high in fiber and can be harder to digest. If you are experiencing stomach issues like diarrhea or bloating, it may be beneficial to switch to more refined, easily digestible carbohydrates like toast or crackers until your appetite returns.
Processed foods
Many processed foods are high in unhealthy fats, sodium, and additives, and are low in essential nutrients. Your body needs nutrient-rich foods to fuel its recovery, and processed items don't provide the right building blocks. Their high salt content can also contribute to dehydration.
Drinks to avoid with a fever
Staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do when you have a fever, as it helps regulate body temperature and prevent complications from fluid loss. However, not all fluids are created equal.
Caffeine and alcohol
Both caffeine (found in coffee, tea, and energy drinks) and alcohol are diuretics, meaning they increase urine production and can lead to dehydration. This is counterproductive when your body is already losing fluids through sweating. Alcohol can also cause inflammation and weaken the immune system. Stick to water, electrolyte beverages, and herbal teas.
Sugary drinks and fruit juices
As mentioned, high sugar content can inhibit immune function. Many commercial fruit juices are loaded with added sugar and lack the fiber of whole fruits. Instead of a sugar-laden juice, opt for water, low-sugar electrolyte drinks, or mild herbal teas.
Common actions and remedies to avoid
Beyond diet, there are several actions you might think are helpful but can actually make your fever worse.
Comparison of helpful vs. harmful fever practices
| Practice | Helpful (Do) | Harmful (Don't) |
|---|---|---|
| Bathing | Lukewarm or tepid water sponging | Ice baths or cold showers |
| Dressing | Wear light, loose, breathable clothing | Bundle up in heavy blankets and layers |
| Rest | Get plenty of rest, sleep, and take it easy | Push through symptoms or perform strenuous activity |
| Hydration | Sip plenty of water and clear liquids | Drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages |
| Medication (Children) | Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen (correct dose for age) | Aspirin (risk of Reye's syndrome) |
Strenuous exercise
Your body needs all its energy to fight the infection. Engaging in strenuous activities or trying to “power through” your illness puts additional stress on your system and can delay recovery. Rest is crucial for recuperation. Gentle movement, like a light walk, might be acceptable if you have no fever and only mild symptoms, but never exercise with a fever.
“Sweating it out” with layers
The old myth of bundling up to "sweat out" a fever is dangerous. It traps heat, which can raise your body temperature further and increase the risk of dehydration. While you can cover yourself with a light blanket if you have chills, you should remove it once you feel warm again.
Ice baths and cold showers
While it seems logical to use cold to fight a fever, sudden temperature changes can trigger shivering. Shivering is your body's way of generating heat, which can make your temperature spike even higher. Furthermore, cold causes blood vessels in the skin to constrict, trapping heat inside the body. Lukewarm water sponging is a safer and more effective method to cool down.
Conclusion
Navigating a fever requires more than just waiting for it to pass. By actively avoiding specific foods, drinks, and habits, you can give your immune system the best chance to do its job efficiently. Prioritizing rest, staying hydrated with the right fluids, and choosing easily digestible, nutritious meals are key to a quicker and more comfortable recovery. Always consult a healthcare provider if your fever is high, persists for more than a couple of days, or is accompanied by severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or persistent vomiting. Understanding what not to have with a fever empowers you to manage your illness wisely and get back to health faster. For more information on safely managing a fever, see reliable health resources like the Cleveland Clinic: 5 Methods to Safely Break a Fever.
