A body temperature of more than 37 degrees Celsius is classed a fever. This is an indicator of an illness, not an illness itself. Fevers that develop rapidly are usually a sign that the body is battling an infection.

Common symptoms of fever include hotness, shivering and sweating, regardless of what the surroundings temperature might be. Drenching sweat may occur during the night as well. There may also be muscular aches, pains in the eyes and headache.

When you have a fever, you are likely to have other symptoms as well, depending on what has caused your temperature to rise. Very often, however, the underlying problem is a viral infection, such as a cold or flu, and you may not feel much like eating.

While adults generally will come to no harm if they do not eat much for a day or two, it is important to keep your fluid intake, and you may well feel a little better if you can manage to eat something.

When you simply cannot face solid food, fruit and vegetable juices make an excellent alternative. They taste good, they are easy to get down and, above all, they are rich in important vitamins and other nutrients that will speed your recovery. Some flavors may appeal more than others, but try to choose combinations that will provide a good mix of vitamins.

These are the so-called anti-oxidant vitamins that help to counter the damage caused by free radicals and will boost your resistance to illness.

Once you are feeling a bit better, you could try eating some of the same fruit and vegetables in their whole forms, raw or lightly cooked. Apricots, mangoes, carrots, sweet potatoes, red peppers, watercress and broccoli are all good sources of beta-carotene (vitamin A); citrus fruit, blackcurrants, strawberries, kiwi fruit, broccoli and other green vegetables are rich in vitamin C. Onions and garlic are also said to be helpful in fighting infection, so think about putting those on the menu too.

Dietary tips

1. As your temperature begins to drop, opt for light, easily digested meals, but steer clear of fatty or fried foods.

2. When your appetite is limited, it is best to concentrate on eating nutritionally rich foods and not to fill yourself up with refined or processed foods that may have few nutritional benefits.

3. It is important to take in plenty of fluids, but juices and herbal teas are better for you than caffeine-loaded drinks, such as tea, coffee and cola, or sweet fizzy drinks.

Editor: Donald