Cold and Flu Myths

Your body is starting to feel weak, you feel exhausted for no reason, and your throat is starting to feel a little tickly. So – you’re feeling sick, or you think a cold might be beginning to take hold of your body. Your mom has always told you that you’re not supposed to work out when you’re sick, but you’re supposed to meet your best friend at the gym in an hour. Should you go? These thoughts probably cross people’s minds every day. Do you know what’s accurate when it comes to the cold and flu? We’ve tracked down the facts to help you bust a few common myths.

Do you really know what’s factual when it comes to the cold and flu? Should you feed a cold and starve a fever? Does running out the door for work with wet hair leave you with a higher chance of getting sick? If you have asked yourself these questions, we are here to help.

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Myth 1:

Do you feed a cold or starve a fever?

Neither. A fever is unrelated to food intake. Consume liquids, like Florida Orange Juice for rehydration and a bonus source of Vitamin C.¹

Myth 2:

Can being cold, cause a cold?

No. The common cold is caused by a virus.²

Myth 3:

Can a cold turn into the flu?

No. Different viruses cause a cold or the flu. However, sometimes the symptoms of each illness can be the same.³

Myth 4:

Can I eat dairy when sick?

While dairy cannot cause mucus, it may make existing mucus thicker.⁴

Myth 5:

Should I cover my mouth when I sneeze?

Yes. Cover your nose and mouth and wash your hands to avoid transferring germs to other surfaces.⁵

Myth 6:

Does wet hair make you sick?

No. The common cold and the flu are caused by viruses.⁶

Myth 7:

Can I sweat out a cold during a workout?

No. Working out may help support a healthier self, but it can not cure a cold.⁷