Hello, this is Dr. Ken Berry. Today, I want to talk to you about a common but often overlooked issue – toenail fungus. This condition affects millions of people and can lead to serious infections if left untreated. But don’t worry, I’m here to guide you on how to cure toenail fungus effectively and naturally.
Understanding Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds. These organisms are always present on our bodies, but when our immune system is compromised or the environment around our tissue is abnormal, they can cause problems like toenail fungus.
The Role of Diet in Fighting Fungus
Tip 1: Adopt a Low-Carb, High Healthy Fat Diet
The first step in your fight against toenail fungus is to fix your diet. Fungus, yeast, and bacteria thrive in a sugar-filled environment. By adopting a low-carb, high healthy fat, or ketogenic diet, you make your body less hospitable to these organisms. This dietary change is a crucial part of your anti-fungal regimen.
Changing the Environment
Tip 2: Go Barefoot As Much As Possible
Fungus loves dark, warm, and moist environments – like the inside of your shoe. To combat this, make it a habit to go barefoot as much as possible. This will help dry out the nail and expose it to more light, making it less attractive to fungus.
Tip 3: Get Some Sun
Sunlight is a natural enemy of fungus and yeast. Just five minutes of sunlight on your toes daily can help eradicate the fungus and keep the fungal count low. Plus, you might get some vitamin D in the process!
Hygiene and Care
Tip 4: Regular Soaks and Salves
Soaking your feet in apple cider vinegar once a week and using Vicks salve can help lower the fungal load. However, remember that these methods should be used in conjunction with the other strategies for maximum effectiveness.
Tip 5: Maintain Good Foot Hygiene
Scrub the crevices around your toenails with an old toothbrush regularly to remove microscopic debris that can hold moisture and provide a hiding place for fungus. Also, keep your toenails neatly trimmed, but avoid digging into the corners.
Tip 6: Dry Your Toes Thoroughly
After washing and drying your feet, use a blow dryer to ensure your toes are completely dry before putting on socks and shoes. This simple step can greatly reduce the chances of fungal growth.
Patience is Key
Remember, these strategies will take time to work. It takes at least six months for the damaged toenail to grow out and be replaced by a new, healthy nail. If after six months of following these strategies the fungus is still present, it’s recommended to see a doctor to check for potential immune system issues.
In some cases, a prescription medication like Lamisil (terbinafine) may be needed. However, this medication can be harsh on the liver, so it’s important to have liver function checked regularly if taking this medication.
By following these steps and being patient, you can effectively cure your toenail fungus and prevent it from returning. Remember, your health is in your hands!
