Foot fungus is a common health problem, and it is usually associated with athlete's foot. In some cases, notes the American Geriatric Medical Association, other conditions or factors may be responsible for foot fungus, including eczema and psoriasis. Foot fungus usually develops between your toes. Before changing your diet to help combat your foot fungus, speak with your primary care provider about the risks, benefits and limitations of this natural treatment approach.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is one of the most common fungal infections, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information, and it may occur in conjunction with other fungal infections, including jock itch. Some of the most significant risk factors for athlete's foot include wearing closed-toe shoes, excessive sweating and open wounds on your feet. Common signs and symptoms associated with athlete's foot include itching, redness and burning in the affected
area as well as peeling skin. In some cases, oozing blisters may develop between your toes.
Foot Fungus Diet
Two of the most effective dietary strategies in fighting fungal infections, including foot fungus, notes Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," involves consuming a diet of between 60 and 70 percent raw roods and eliminating all refined sugar from your diet. Foods that may be particularly helpful include garlic, fresh vegetables, broiled fish and broiled skinless chicken. Consider avoiding most meat and dairy products, soft drinks, grains and fried foods.
A Helpful Food
Garlic may be a particularly helpful food in treating your foot fungal infection. According to naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," garlic is a powerful anti-fungal agent. Tilgner notes that garlic also possesses antibacterial, anti-parasitic and hypotensive action. Garlic is an excellent source of copper, phosphorus, calcium, selenium, tryptophan, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and manganese. If stored properly -- uncovered in a dark place -- garlic will remain fresh for about one month.
Warning
Foot fungus is a condition that may best be treated using a combination of conventional medical approaches and complementary alternative measures. The use of diet alone in treating this health problem may be insufficient in resolving your health complaint. Review all diet-related topics with your primary care provider before incorporating dietary changes into your foot fungus treatment plan. More rigorous clinical research trials may be needed to examine the purported health benefits of foods historically used in treating foot fungus.
References
- American Podiatric Medical Association: Athlete's Foot
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Athlete's Foot
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
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