Athlete's Foot
Fungal Skin Infections, Jock Itch
Athletes foot and fungal infections are easily recognized
by; unpleasant odor, moist, red patches, cracking skin,
blistered or peeling areas, on the body, especially in between
the toes. As the infection progresses, the skin grows soft and the
center of the infection becomes inflamed and sensitive to the touch.
Gradually, the edges of the infected area become milky white and the
skin begins to peel. A slight watery discharge also may be present.
The fungus which causes the athlete's foot is called Trichophyton
and can thrive on the upper layers of skin. The infection
spreads by direct contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. As
the infection spreads, it may affect the soles of the feet or the
toenails. The affected skin is also more vulnerable to bacteria that
cause skin infection. Common areas where the fungus my thrive
are locker rooms, pool, saunas, health clubs, public showers, and Jacuzzis.
Pre-Disposing Factors / Common Causes:
1. Overused of broad spectrum antibiotics
2. Overuse of prescription drugs which kills the good bacteria
3. Poor Hygiene
4. Low Immune system
5. Yeast Overgrowth
6. Shoes which are not well ventilated
Lifestyle
Sleep at least 8 hours a night
Fresh air
Sunshine
Drink Fresh water
Yoga to reduce stress
Review medications to insure they are not the underlying cause
Eat a balanced diet
Supplements that may help:
Supplement
Property of Supplements
| Vinegar |
Reduces the
spreading of fungus |
| Basil |
Reduces the
spreading of fungus |
| Tea Tree Oil |
Reduces the
spreading of fungus |
| Turmeric |
May reduce
inflammation |
| Goldenseal
Root |
Improve immune
system |
| Goldenseal
Leaf |
Soak feet in the
tea, to reduce re-infection. |
References:
Herrera-Arellano A, Rodriguez-Soberanes A, de los Angeles
Martinez-Rivera M, Martinez-Cruz E, Zamilpa A, Alvarez L,
Tortoriello J. Effectiveness and tolerability of a standardized
phytodrug derived from Solanum chrysotrichum on Tinea pedis: a
controlled and randomized clinical trial. Planta Med. 69.5 (2003):
390-395
Medical Applications of Clinical Nutrition by Jeffrey Bland
Healthy Healing by Linda Page
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