Athlete’s foot is a persistent fungal infection of the foot. It occurs between the toes, toenails and other areas of the foot. The skin between the toes can appear red, cracked and scaly. Sores and blisters can also form on the soles of the feet and between the toes. The areas may also burn and itch.

Moisture and warmth provide an environment for the fungus to thrive. People with sweaty feet are more susceptible to getting athlete’s foot.

Although the condition typically affects the foot, it can spread to other areas of the body, including the groin.

ROOT CAUSES

• Depletion of good bacteria that normally keep fungus in check due to frequent use of antibiotics or steroids
• Poor digestion and elimination
• Depressed immune system
• Poor hygiene (feet in a damp environment)
• A high-sugar diet

TREATMENT

1)     DIET:

Recommended Food: Eat unsweetened yoghurt to replace friendly bacteria. Consume foods such as garlic, onions, chlorella, spirulina, wheatgrass which are known to support detoxification. Consume 1 to 2 tablespoonfuls of flaxseeds daily. Flaxseeds have anti-fungal  properties.

Foods To Avoid: Fungus feeds on sugars and yeast, so reduce or eliminate sugars in the diet.

2)     NUTRACEUTICALS:

Tea tree oil: Apply tea tree oil liquid directly to the fungal infection. For toenail fungus, trim the nails, wash the feet with tea tree soap and apply the oil as far under the nail as possible.

Garlic: Garlic fights fungal infections and also boosts immune strength. Take 500-1000mg of garlic twice daily

Grapefruit Seed Extract: Take 200mg two to three times daily for its anti-fungal properties.

Echinacea and Goldenseal: Both herbs enhance immune function and echinaceae has been shown to have anti-fungal effects.

Probiotic: Probiotics supply friendly bacteria which fight fungus and prevent its overgrowth.

Vitamin C : Vitamin C helps to enhance immune function

Multivitamin: A high-potency multivitamin provides the many nutrients needed to support immune function.

3)     OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS :

Expose your feet to the open air. Wear sandals or porous slippers. Use cotton socks , if your feet perspire a lot, change socks twice daily. Wash your feet with soap daily.

4)     Topical antifungal sprays, creams and powders can also be used.