Have you ever noticed quick weight loss during the flu? While reduced eating plays a role, fever may also ramp up calorie burn as your body fights infection.
Even when feeling exhausted, nauseous, or appetite-free, prioritize nutrition and hydration. Your immune system demands fuel to battle invaders effectively.
Read also: 'This is how you burn extra calories'
When bacteria, viruses, or fungi invade, your body activates defenses: combating pathogens, clearing toxins, and elevating temperature via fever. This extra workload—on top of routine functions like heartbeat and digestion—spikes energy needs, explaining excessive sleepiness and elevated heart rates during illness.
Fever significantly accelerates metabolism. For every degree Celsius above 37°C, you burn 7-12% more calories, equivalent to the energy expended in 1.5 hours of brisk walking.
Your body is in overdrive when sick—avoid exercise or work. Rest fully to support healing.
Maintain normal calorie intake for essential nutrients. If appetite lags, hydrate aggressively (fever increases fluid loss) and eat small meals every two hours for steady energy.
Bananas provide potassium to replenish sweat or vomit losses and may help lower fever. Vary your choices for balanced nutrition.
