Whenever my LO (1 year old Now) develops fever , my mother-in-law will always tell me not to cook porridge for him .. saying it will keep the body heat inside and make the fever difficult to subside.. is it some kind of old wives' tales?

there should be no problem with porridge .... but keep it watery... check out this website for food for toddler when having fever http://www.nutritionvista.com/NutritionBuzz/diet-during-fever-in-children,115.aspx

Yes i believe it is some old wives tale. Never heard of such a thing. Infact, porridge is served due to the lack of apetite and easier digestible.

thanks