There are many common myths about the common cold. It is important to know the proper treatments for a cold and whether or not you are falling prey to false tips.

 Myth #1: “Feed a cold, Starve a fever”

People often lose their appetites when they are sick. Force feeding or starving oneself isn’t going to cure the cold. According to Health.com what will help is staying hydrated and eating enough calories. Researchers recommend skipping any sort of dieting when sick.

 Myth #2: Vitamin C

According to Healthline.com there have been new studies that show that taking vitamin C during the first symptoms of a cold may reduce symptoms. However, vitamin C has very little effect in actually preventing the onset of a cold. Also, Orange juice, although it contains vitamin C, its sugar content actually prevents the body from absorbing that vitamin C. Try eating whole fruits without the added sugar.

 Myth 2: Chicken Noodle Soup

Studies have shown that chicken soup may have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce cold symptoms. In addition the warm liquid helps individuals continue to stay hydrated. However, many canned soups have high sodium content and that can actually dehydrate the body. Stick to lower sodium soups or homemade broth.

 Myth 3: Antibiotics Cure a Cold

Antibiotics don’t typically help get rid of a cold. Antibiotics help fight bacteria but most colds are viral. An over prescription of unnecessary antibiotics have caused our bodies to produce antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Therefore when the illness is bacterial, an antibiotic might not be able to cure it.

 Myth 4: A Wet Head Can Get You Sick

Being cold is the only thing to worry about while sleeping with wet hair. A virus causes colds therefore; wet hair or clothes won’t increase susceptibility to colds. The only cause of concern should be weather cold enough to cause hypothermia.