"Feed a cold, starve a fever"
There are a few problems with this self-help chestnut, beginning with the fact that no one seems to remember it the same way twice. Regardless, neither a common cold nor a virus resulting in a fever is reason to starve the body of the nutrients it needs to ward off infection. Feed them both -- within reason. The armchair argument against feeding a fever is that it's like putting wood on a fire, but the body creates a fever for good reason: at higher temperatures, more virus-fighting protein is produced. When your system has all the food-derived energy it needs, it will send a cue by curbing your appetite. Trust that the body knows what it needs.

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away"
There's no better way to prevent disease than by exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet -- and apples are a great place to start. Fresh apples are an excellent source of antioxidants, which are associated with reduced cancer rates. They're also a source of vitamin C, which aids in the absorption of iron, helps prevent gums from bleeding and keeps you from bruising easily by strengthening capillaries. Sari Greaves, RD, CDN, spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association, notes that apple skin is a uniquely rich source of fiber and disease-fighting compounds. "Apples also have a high water content -- 86 percent water by weight -- making it both a hydrating and filling snack for under 100 calories," says Greaves.

"Eat your carrots -- they make you see better"
Healthy eyesight is dependent in part on vitamin A, and just a handful of crisp baby carrots can satisfy your daily requirement of the vitamin; vitamin A also makes for healthy skin and aids in resisting infection. Still, it's a bit of a stretch to claim that carrots alone will help you maintain (let alone recover) 20/20 vision or see better at night.

"Chicken soup will make you feel better"
"There are many beneficial effects in the management of cold symptoms with chicken soup, but no scientific evidence that it will cure a cold," says Wendy Stern, MD, of the American Academy of Otolaryngology and president of the Massachusetts Society of Otolaryngology. Dr. Stern is not immune to the charm of a bedside bowl and she acknowledges some of the ways this longstanding favorite eases symptoms: a briny broth soothes the throat; steam and spices loosen mucous secretions; and warm liquid hydrates the system. Plus, it's a good source of nutrition and energy at a time when other foods may be unpalatable. Says Dr. Stern, "The bottom line is that the more vitamins and nutrients that one consumes during an illness, the better able the body is to fight the cold."

So, while a bowl of caringly prepared chicken soup can't cure a cold -- and remember, nothing can -- it can still go a long way toward making you feel better.

"Gargle with salt water to cure a sore throat"
Gargling with a solution of salt and warm water will temporarily relieve the pain, though not the cause, of a sore throat. Says Dr. Stern, "The salt can draw fluid out of the swollen or inflamed lining of the throat and mobilize any thick, sticky secretion, allowing the throat to feel better." She advises all of her patients -- especially those prone to colds and sinus infections -- to incorporate salt-water rinses into their daily regimen.

"Feel a cold coming on? Drink your orange juice"
Conventional wisdom doesn't always hold up to scientific research. Extensive studies have proven time and time again that vitamin C, though important for overall health, does not prevent a cold or relieve its symptoms. Plus, the high sugar content in orange juice can diminish the immune system's effectiveness. If you're still inclined to boost your citrus-based vitamin C intake, you're better off with less sugary sources such as lemon, lime or grapefruit. Allowing that liquids in general are recommended for anyone fighting an infection, there's no magical cure in a glass of OJ; save for, perhaps, the power of suggestion. On the other hand, it may be in your best interest not to argue with Grammy while you're sick.