Cure Nail Fungus

Fungi are microscopic organisms that don’t need sunlight to survive. Some fungi have beneficial uses, while others cause illness and infection. Nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds also can be responsible for nail fungal infections. All of these microscopic organisms live in warm, moist environments, including swimming pools and showers. They can invade your skin through tiny invisible cuts or through a small separation between your nail and nail bed. They cause problems only if your nails are continually exposed to warmth and moisture — conditions perfect for the growth and spread of fungi.

Infection with nail fungus occurs more in toenails than in fingernails because toenails are often confined in a dark, warm, moist environment inside your shoes — where fungi can thrive. Another reason may be the diminished blood circulation to the toes as compared with the fingers, which makes it harder for your body’s immune system to detect and eliminate the infection.

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An infection of nail fungus occurs when fungi infect one or more of your nails. A nail fungal infection may begin as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the nail fungus spreads deeper into your nail, it may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and develop crumbling edges — an unsightly and potentially painful problem.

These infections usually develop on nails continually exposed to warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or shower floors. Nail fungus isn’t the same as athlete’s foot, which primarily affects the skin of the feet, but at times the two may coexist and can be caused by the same type of fungus.

An infection with nail fungus may be difficult to treat, and infections may recur. But medications are available to help clear up nail fungus.

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There are a lot of men, women, and children today that have to deal with toe nail fungus everyday of their lives and want to know if home remedies for toe nail fungus really work? Even though the problem actually is more of a visible problem than it is life-threatening problem, no one likes the idea of having such an ugly looking problem with their toes nails or finger nails.

In most cases the nail that is affected by the fungus will become yellow, brown, black and the affected nail will eventually begin to peel. That is reason why a lot of people who are experiencing troubles with nail fungus would love to discover a method of curing it, and several of them do not want to go through the trouble and expense of going to their doctor for treatment and then anting up for medication.

If you want to treat your toenail fungus in the privacy of your own home, then here are a few home remedies for toenail fungus that have helped a few people.

Remember some remedies that work for some people may not for you. One important thing that you must be well aware of about toenail fungus is that it is transmittable meaning you can pass it one to a loved one or even if you shower in the men or ladies shower at the gym those that come behind you just might become infected.

The fungus that causes nail fungus is actually nested in the surroundings that are around you day in and day out, and your feet tend to provide it the ideal nesting ground since you wear shoes and socks everyday.

One thing you must do once you have been infected with a nail fungus is to get yourself a few pair of absorbent socks that you must change often, and a comfortable pair of breathable shoes such as flip flops or sandals.

Because the fungus is transmittable you must also remember to never use the same towel you used for drying the affected area for drying your other toenails. Several people claim to have found relief from their fungus, by soaking their feet in an anti-septic mouthwash, and a solution of apple cider vinegar and water.

The actual key to making these remedies work is to make sure that you are consistent with your home remedy because it will require a lot of your time to remove toenail fungus. Some people feel that trying home made remedies is a waste of time and this may be true, but the fact is, home remedies do work but they will not cure your toe nail fungus.

Home remedies for toe nail fungus are a short term solution to a long term problem. If you want to know how to get rid of toe nail fungus once and for all keep reading below.Do you live every day with thick, ugly, discolored, misshapen nails (fingers or toes) that you’re embarrassed to show in public? You can’t leave the house without covering them up! You deserve to walk barefoot without worry. You deserve to no longer feel ashamed. You deserve to get your life back and now you can with Zetaclear. Zetaclear Will Kill Toenail Fungus.

Determining one that will work for you will take a bit of effort on your part, but it will definitely be worth it to help you get rid of toe nail fungus. You may have struggled or you are still struggling with this fungus right now and your adventure to finding a cure has not been a successful one because you are still trying to find a cure that will work. Looking at the other methods that some other people on the Internet have been using to treat toenail fungus may be unbelievable. Trying to figure out how to treat toe nail fungus from the information you may have come across online seems absolutely hopeless. Your frustration is likely due to the different kind of ideas that are found online and because they do not know what really works and what will not work.

Onychomycosis which is the term used by physicians for toe nail fungus. Doctors say that it is a condition that is very hard to cure but let some people tell it, it is not hard to cure at all. All you have to do is try a little of this or little of that and you will be healed. Don’t believe the hype. Is there a reason nail fungus is so hard to cure? Yes, keep on reading. The reason it is so hard to get rid of is that the problem is caused by spores. These little particles of substance will occupy your feet, socks, shoes and any moist location, waiting for a opportunity to infect your toe nail. It is possible that a few techniques for treating toe nail fungus might work, but you need to take the proper precautions required to stop your nail from getting infected again.

A few good precautions you can take against re-infection are:

Drying out your shoes prior to putting them on again.

Wearing open toe shoes so air can get to your feet

Change your shoes at least once a day.

Wear odor insoles and swap them on a regular basis

Wear flip flops in public locker rooms or showers

You may not know where you actually got the fungus from, so why chance it. Another thing is to take off your shoes during the day, whenever you can so your feet can get some air. When dealing with the different choices or methods for toe nail fungus cures, it is crucial that you be real careful and limit the chance of you coming in further contact with it and risk re-infection. Remedies for treating toe nail fungus might work but not if you wind up catching the fungus over again.

One method of treating toenail fungus is the use of a vinegar. It can be used for the treatment of nail fungus. A lot of people have used vinegar for nail fungus treatment. By soaking their nails for 30 to 60 minutes a day or by drinking 1 to 1.5 ounces every day. Who has the time to sit for hours soaking their foot? There are other solutions for curing toenail fungus. Some natural treatment for toenail fungus has the benefits of vinegar, that does not call for you to have to sit for hours a day. Whatever remedy you choose as a treatment for toe nail fungus, remember that re-infection could take place. Protect yourself by looking for ways to prevent your nails from being exposed to toe nail fungus.

Do you live every day with thick, ugly, discolored, misshapen nails (fingers or toes) that you’re embarrassed to show in public? You can’t leave the house without covering them up! You deserve to walk barefoot without worry. You deserve to no longer feel ashamed. You deserve to get your life back and now you can with Zetaclear.

Zetaclear Will Kill Toenail Fungus.

A Practical Alternative… Nail fungus, unsightly patches of discolored, deteriorating keratin caused by a microbal plant, is a tough condition to treat. Onychomycosis, as the infection is termed, can resist even the most potent of systemic antibiotics.

People are more prone to get this infection as they age, and it can be spread, for example, by the common use of manicure tools.

Nail fungus can effect the fingernails, but the damp, dark conditions surrounding the feet make toenails a better host for this parasitic growth by a margin of 4 to 1.

In the past, drugs such as Griseofulvin and Ketoconazole were sometimes successful in eliminating the condition, but not without side effects.

More recently, synthetics like Sporanox and Lamisil have been used.

Lamisil, probably the most heavily promoted, seems to be the toxin of choice within the medical community.

Because nail fungus is extremely resistant to treatment, Novartis, the maker of Lamisil — generically terbinafine — recommends 1 - 250mg tablet per day for 6 or 12 weeks, with 6 weeks for fingernails and 12 weeks for the harder to treat toenails.

This regimen is not without risk or side effects, including liver damage, and not guaranteed to solve the problem. The condition can reappear within a year.

It’s also not without cost.

Depending on whether it comes in 14, 28 or 42 day doses, the cost of Lamisil can range anywhere from about $450 to $500, not including office visits and tests to monitor the liver’s reaction to the drug.

Is there an alternative?

Yes.

Naturopaths and some MD’s will suggest using Tea Tree Oil.

Steam distilled from the leaves of Melaleuca alternafolia, a shrub like plant native to Australia whose healing properties have been long known to its aboriginal tribes, Tea Tree Oil has strong antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.

For nail fungus, the pure oil is applied to the affected nails 2 to 3 times a day until the new nail has completely grown out. This can mean about 6 months for fingernails and 12 months for the slower growing toenails. Some users remove loose material from under the nails and others have reported using a nail file or emery board to sand down the surface of the nail for better penetration to the nailbed.

100% Australian Tea Tree Oil can be found in health food stores. The cost is approximately $10-$15 for a half-ounce bottle, and it’s safe to use.

Till next time,

Lawrence Stepanowicz, ND

It may seem like you’re the only who’s got it, but you’re not! Nail fungus is a common problem, affecting almost 30 million Americans. Anyone can become infected, but most are between the ages of 40 and 65. It is usually seen most often in the toenails of men and the fingernails of women.

However most people don’t know what they can do to eliminate the fungus. To date most creams have not worked because they could not penetrate the toenail to reach the main section of the fungus. Therapeutic essential oils are the most effective. They penetrates the nail and carries with it healing properties and other natural ingredients that combine to eliminate the fungus and clear the toenails.

Those who become infected vary by occupation. Generally,people who work or play where their hands are continually exposed to moisture are at greater risk. Also, if you have a relative who had it, you are more likely to get it, as are those with certain typess of immune diseases.

Onychomycosis is caused by a fungus. It digests keratin, the protective outer layer of nails, hair and skin. As a result, the keratin goes into over-production, causing an excess which forces the nail to separate from the nail bed.

rel=”nofollow”Onychomycosis is not a problem to be ignored - it will not clear up on its own! In fact, if left untreated, it can spread to other nails and make everyday activities, such as walking or writing, painful and difficult.

For those who are suffering, the appearance of hard, yellow-brownish nails can be embarrassing, whether on the hands or the feet.

The more you know about your infection onychomycosis), the more you’ll understand why you should talk to your primary care physician, podiatrist, dermatologist or healthcare professional about it.

NAIL FUNGUS

Fungal nail infections are very common.

Both fingernails and toenails may be affected, although toenail fungal infection is the most common type. Fungal infection of the nails is the one of the most difficult of all disorders to cure.

There are a number of oral medications that have been promoted as effective cures, and, indeed, many of these medications eradicate nail fungus. However, all of these medications have the potential of causing significant toxicity, including liver damage.

Oil of oregano aids in the cure primarily through topical application, although internal consumption may be necessary however, this must be under the direction of a professional health care provider. The oil has a deep penetrating power, which aids in the destruction of nail fungus, since this fungus infects the root of the nail bed as well as the surface. Regarding essential oils, oil of oregano’s ability to destroy nail fungus is unmatched. Rub oil of oregano liberally into involved nails as often as possible. Be sure to reduce sugar intake. Our Healthy Nail Blend includes oregano and 6 other powerful essential oils.

FOOT AND TOENAIL FUNGUS

In the book, “The Cure is in the Cupboard: How to Use Oregano for Better Health” Dr. Cass Ingram, says “The feet harbor a variety of microbes. In fact, they are one of the most commonly infected external sites on the body. Circulation in this area is poor, and this leads to sluggish local immunity. A variety of microbes may find residence in the skin of the feet, particularly between the toes, where moisture is retained. Foul odor is a dependable sign of poor health of the feet, as is the development of scaling or athlete’s foot.”

Problem toenails may readily become infected, particularly by fungi, although bacteria, such as Pseudomonas, may also infect them. Toenail infections are difficult to eradicate, because the infection beings deep within the nail bed, and the delivery of medicine to this region is difficult

It is a little known fact that poor health of the feet affect the health of the entire body. Thus, for optimal health the feet must be kept clean and free of infection. Wash the feet often and be sure to keep the toenails well manicured. Clean any debris that might accumulate about the toenails or between the toes. . Don’t neglect the health of the feet; your body will pay a price as a result.”

CHILDREN SKIN AND NAIL FUNGUS

Nail health is often neglected in children.

Children usually fail to attend to good hygiene and their hand washing technique is usually poor, if they wash at all. The fingernails are one of the dirtiest regions of children, microbially.

The underside of the nails often contain a reservoir of microbes, especially if the nails are long. It is well known that parasitic infections in children are spread by poor hygiene; and entire day care center can become infected from one carrier.

The hands are the main mode of transmission, but it is the underside of the fingernails that house the parasitic cysts and eggs.

Dirty fingernails transmit infection, as microbes readily live under the nail bed. In particular, parasites tend to reside under the nails, and from there they readily reintroduced into the body.

The fingernails must be kept neatly trimmed.

Wash the edges of the nail beds with a soap and oil of oregano solution. If this is done regularly, the incidence of infectious disease in children will be curbed dramatically

Be sure to educate children regarding the importance of hand washing.

Oil of oregano and/or Tea Tree essential oil helps reduce the risk for contracting microbial infections. They can be used both on the body and on inanimate objects.

It may be added to soaps and they are a universal antiseptic, and there is no limit to the versatility of its uses. Infections spread like wildfires in public establishments, especially schools.

Instruct children to use the oils during hand washing to prevent the transmission of infection from child to child and also to prevent it from arriving at home.

Fortunately, we can lower the risk of infection by paying scrupulous attention to personal hygiene. Infection is often caused by the foreign bodies (germs) which enter our body through the mouth, nose, eyes, and fingernails, as well as through cuts in our skin. Good hygiene won’t prevent cuts, but it can eliminate many of the germs that are lurking around our eyes, mouth, nose, and fingernails.By preventing the germs from getting into our bodies and causing infections, we keep our antibodies at a normal level, allowing our albumin level to rise.

If you have ever struggled with candida, you know it can be very difficult to eradicate. Fortunately, there are essential oils that can help eliminate nail fungus with none of the dangerous side effects seen in numerous medications, and they have been tested in medical labs and proven effective to kill fungus infections. Some of these oils are oregano, tea tree, pine needle, lemon, peppermint, and Myrrh.

A thick, yellowish nail with splotchy white areas is a classic presentation for a fungal toenail. In the early stages the toenail is only slightly discolored, or slightly thickened. In the late stages the nail can become very thick and has a tendency to “grow up” more than in grows out. The nail will be very discolored, typically dark yellow-brown and will start to change shape and crumble. In some cases the nail becomes very loose and many will lose the nail, only for it to regrow with the fungus.

The medical term for toenail fungus is “onychomycosis,” pronounced on * EE * ko * my * ko * sis. The prevalence in America is about 2-3%, but some have reported it as high as 13%. Toenail fungus affects men twice as often as it affects women and the prevalence among elderly individuals and diabetics is 25%. In the 1800s, fungal toenails were very rare. The increased prevalence is linked to the increased exposure to fungus through the use of showering facilities in gyms, the use of hot tubs, saunas and public pool areas. There has also been an increase in the number of individuals participating in sporting activities and wearing occlusive footwear. More individuals have diabetes and there has been an overall increase in age of the general population, both of which are associated with a less than optimal immune system. It is no surprise that the risk factors for developing toenail fungus are increasing age, male gender, nail trauma, sweaty feet, poor circulation, poor hygiene, foot fungus and a compromised immune system. Athletes will also have a higher risk.

There are a number of treatments for toenail fungus. The most aggressive and effective way to treat the fungus is with oral anti-fungal medications. The most common oral anti-fungal medications are Itraconazole (Sporonox ®) and Terbinafine (Lamisil ®). Both medications can be quite expensive as they need to be taken once daily for 3 months. The effectiveness of the medications ranges from 60 to 80%, with a recurrence rate of 15%. Lamisil® appears to be more effective and has fewer drug interactions than Sporonox®. With both medications there is a long list of benign side effects including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, rash, headache, taste disturbances and dizziness. Serious adverse events are very rare, less than 0.5%, but do include hepatitis and acute hepatic necrosis.

There are many other options besides oral anti-fungal medications. Unfortunately, they are not very effective. The most effective topical medication is Ciclopirox (Penlac ®) lacquer. Some studies have shown cure rates up to 60%, but in my experience the effectiveness is about 10-15%. Side effects occur in less than 2% of patients and include burning and redness around the nail. This medication is only available by prescription and is also quite expensive. A few other prescription medications that help decrease the thickness of the fungal nails are Carmol® 40 and Keralac® Nail Gel. You should not expect to see complete cures with these products, but they can decrease the thickness and discoloration of the nail in some cases.

There are many home remedies and over the counter products that you can purchase. Some home remedies that can be used include bleach, tea tree oil, grapeseed extract, and Vics VapoRub®. With any home remedy or non-prescription topical, you must understand that the effectiveness of the treatment is fairly low, less than 10%. If you do try one of these therapies make sure to use it every day. Roughen up the nail surface with a file and apply the medication with a q-tip. Bleach can cause skin irritation and some individuals have had skin reactions to the Vics VapoRub®. In general these treatments are considered very safe.

Combination therapy can help increase the effectiveness of the treatment. If you choose to take an oral medication, make sure you use a topical anti-fungal agent as well. Nail removal is also an option. Once the nail is removed, the topicals can reach the nail bed and they become more effective. The nail will grow back in over a period of 8-10 months. Permanent nail removal is reserved for those with chronic ingrown nails, ulceration under the nails or pain from the fungal nails.

The best form of treatment is prevention and preventing the fungus from spreading to other toenails may be the best treatment option. I recommend choosing a topical that you feel comfortable with and use it once a week. No matter which treatment option you choose, you should take the following steps to avoid re-infection.

1. Place an anti-fungal powder or spray in the shoes to help fight off the fungus.
2. Make sure you rotate your shoes often and keep them in a cool dry place.
3. Change your insoles frequently, and make sure they dry out between use.
4. Bleach out the shower on a weekly basis.
5. Wash your shower mat regularly in hot water.
6. If you belong to a gym or health club, wear sandals in the locker room and don’t walk around barefoot.
7. Don’t keep your shoes in the gym locker where they cannot dry out.
8. Make sure your athletic shoes fit well to prevent jamming at the toes. Jamming at the toes leads to microtrauma at the nails and increases the chance for fungal infection.
9. If your feet sweat excessively, try using an antiperspirant spray on your feet before your workout.
10. Cut your toenails straight across. Don’t cut too short and cause breaks in the skin. This will increase the chance for fungal infection. Don’t let the toenails grow too long or they will jam against the shoe and cause bleeding under the nail, again increasing the chance for fungal infection.

The bottom line is that prevention is easier than treatment. Treating toenail fungus is very difficult and will take months regardless of the type of treatment you choose. If you have fungal toenails that cause pressure, pain or infection, consider talking to your doctor about prescription medications or nail removal. If your fungal toenails are only unsightly and don’t cause any discomfort, consider topical therapy for treatment. The last option is to prevent the nails from becoming worse or becoming a problem. Try a weekly application of an over the counter topical along with methods to prevent re-infection.

Onychomycosis refers to a fungus infection, affecting either the toenail or fingernail. Toenail fungus is much more common than fingernail fungus. Once you recognize that you have a nail fungus, it is very important to start treatment immediately before the fungus gets worse and spreads. Although many people do not believe fungus is a serious problem, if left untreated it can become quite painful and embarrassing. Symptoms of toenail fungus

• Nail becomes thick and overgrown.
• Debris collect under the nail.
• Nail turns yellow or brownish.
• Nails have a foul odor.
• If left untreated, the nail mail crumble and fall off.
• Nails become painful if left untreated.
• The nail separates from the nail bed How common are toenail fungus infections

Toenail fungus is very common, and any can get it. It is estimated that 4-16% of the people worldwide are affected. Children rarely get it, and it is estimated that about half of all people age 70 or older have at least one toenail that is affected.

Causes of toenail fungus

Once a fungus gets under the toenail, they can be difficult to get rid of. Several factors can increase your chances of getting nail fungus.

Wearing tightly-fitting shoes or tight hosiery will increase the chances of getting toenail fungus. Having multiple layers of nail polish doesn’t allow the nail to breath, and can increase the risk of having nail fungus. Common places to pick up toenail fungus include locker room floors and showers.

You need to be extra careful when you are cutting your nails. Cutting them too low makes it easier for a fungus to get under them. Nail biting also can weaken the nails and make it easier for a fungus to get under them.

How to prevent toenail fungus

There are several things you can do to reduce the chances of getting a toenail fungus. They include:

• Keep your nails well groomed, and file down any sharp areas.
• Do not share a nail trimmer or file with anyone. If you get manicures or pedicures, bring your own clippers and files.
• Wear comfortable loose shoes. Pointed shoes push the toes together and increase the chances of a fungus.
• Do not walk barefoot in public locker rooms or showers.
• Change your sock whenever they become damp. Wear clean socks every day.
• Wear a different pair of shoes each day.
• Using a foot powder in your socks will help to keep your feet dry.

Nail fungus treatment

There are both over the counter and prescription treatments that are very effective for treating nail fungus. Also, there are many “home remedies”. For the most part, home remedies are such as vinegar, tea tree oil or bleach are ineffective. We recommend using a proven medication to eliminate the problem before it spreads. Since many prescription medications have dangerous side effects, we recommend that you consult with your doctor before starting any treatment.

What is nail fungus?

Nail fungus, also known as Onychomycosis, is an organism which digests the keratin found in your fingernails and toenails. The fingernail and toenail are naturally built to be strong barriers, and resistant to fungi and other infections. However, because of how strong this barrier is, once the infection is present, it is sometimes very difficult to eliminate.

How can I prevent nail fungus?

One of the most important steps in preventing nail infections is to keep nails well trimmed, but not over trimming them. Cutting the nail too short can cause small cuts and tears, which could allow fungal organisms to penetrate your nail bed. To prevent toenail fungal infections, keep your feet as dry and clean as possible at all times. Change socks and shoes frequently. If you have athlete’s foot, treat it regularly. Athlete’s foot is a fungus which can spread to your toenails. Do not share nail clippers with anyone else, as it is possible to transmit the fungus.

How common is nail fungus?

No one knows for sure, but experts estimate that 30-35 million Americans are affected by this condition.

What are the symptoms?

Because nail fungus can affect the toenails’ appearance, they are rather unsightly for an untrained eye. Usually people first discover the infection because of the nail discoloration. Nails may turn green or yellow, but in some cases they turn into an even darken color. Other rather common nail fungus symptoms may be: nails may get flaky, and chipped, bits of “gunk” or debris may collect under your nails, your nails may smell bad, toenails may get so thick that wearing shoes causes pain, discomfort from the infection may make it hard to walk, or do other activities.

How can I cure my nail infection?

There are two primary methods of treating nail fungus. Topical treatments (liquids, creams) are commonly used for to treat less severe cases. These treatments are usually acid-based liquids or anti-fungal creams. Oral treatments are powerful anti-fungal medications, such as Lamisil or Sporanox. Prescription oral medications are usually used in more severe or difficult cases. Nail infections can be difficult to cure, but can usually be treated effectively.

If you suspect that you have a fungal nail infection, you should see your doctor or dermatologist. Your doctor will do a test to tell if you do have a fungal nail infection, and if you do, make a recommendation on treatment options. The earlier that an infection is detected, the easier it will be to treat.

One in every five people will be infected with fungus in their life. Fungi are molds and yeasts that can live in the top layer of the skin and nails. Toenail fungus and nail fungus infections are very common, accounting for approximately fifty percent of all nail disorders. This fungal infection can become quite unsightly and painful. Fungal growth at the nail usually begins as a light colored spot under the tip of the fingernail or as discoloration of the nail. As the fungus grows, it will continue to spread until the entire nail becomes thick and yellow with crumbling edges. If no treatment is given to destroy the fungus, the condition will worsen and eventually the nail will have a distorted shape. The color may become green, brown, or black, and the fingertips may begin to emit a foul odor. The fingers or toes may become painful to use.

Nail fungus may be treated with a variety of prescription medications, either oral or topical. These medications can be often be costly and may come with side effects, so it is wise to combat this situation in its early stages with one of many natural remedies available and to consistently maintain proper nutrition to boost the immune system and enable it to fight the infection. While there are many products that have anti-fungal properties Fungal Research, LLC, only recommends the best, most effective products for rapid response and long-term results.

It is well known that proper nutrition is the key to good health and longevity. Making a commitment to a well balanced diet is the single most important thing that you can do to sustain a healthy body. Good nutrition keeps your weight in a desirable range, lowering your risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and a host of other serious ailments. Eating a well balanced diet also gives your immune system the resources to prevent an array of viral and fungal infections, including nail fungus.

According to many nutrition experts, the majority of the calories consumed each day should be carbohydrates, up to 60%. However, it is very important to be conscious of what carbohydrates you are using to fill this requirement. Packing your diet with sugar and wheat flour is a sure way to load up on calories and eventually pounds as these substances contain little or no value and are almost immediately transformed into sugar. This is especially important if you are infected with nail fungus as a high blood sugar contributes to the spread of infection. Bacteria, viruses and fungus feed on sugar. Carbohydrates that benefit your body are those found in whole grains, beans, vegetables and non-tropical fruits. Fruits are great but too much provides simple sugars in the form of fructose, which can feed the fungus. Did you know that blueberries are a great immune booster?

The cornerstone of a healthy diet is variety. This is especially true when choosing fresh fruits and vegetables. Because processed foods are lacking in the basic nutrients that the body needs to sustain a healthy immune system, it is important to limit the consumption of these foods and focus on raw, preferably organic vegetables and fruits. Green leafy vegetables are especially necessary as they contain an abundance of the photochemicals that protect your body against cancer, environmental toxins and many degenerative diseases.

Another important factor impacting your immune system is the proper intake of healthy fats, such as those found in olive oil, oily fish, walnuts and flax. Eating vegetable protein from beans, fish, and low fat dairy products also contributes to overall good health and the strengthening of the immune system. Consuming at least 40 grams of fiber a day promotes the elimination of toxins from the body and drinking six to eight glasses of water per day will also keep your immune system up and lower your chances of contracting infections such as nail fungus or candida.

Preventing any ailment is typically much easier than curing it and the best way to maintain good health and an immune system that can successfully fight off potentially harmful infections, such as nail fungus, is to give your body the fuel it needs to function properly. By making wise food choices and giving your body necessary nutrients, you are taking an important first step to ensuring your own good health.

In addition to good nutrition, there are some common sense steps to take to lessen your chances of suffering from nail fungus. Keeping nails clean and trimmed is important because fungus can make a home under the nail. Never pick at hangnails or other skin around the nails because this can make a way for germs to find a way into your nails.

If you typically have your nails done at a salon, be sure that it is a reputable one that understands the importance of sterilizing all manicure equipment. It also may be necessary to discontinue using nail polish or artificial nails as they can trap moisture under the polish and encourage the growth of fungus. It is also important to keep the hands clean, especially after contacting fungus that may reside on other fingernails or toenails because of the contagious nature of the fungus.

To read more about nail fungus, toenail fungus, athlete’s foot and candida go to  http://www.mycozil.com.

Dr. Jonathan N. Group, B.S., R.D., D.C. is a Doctor of Chiropractic, Registered Dietitian and Independent Research Scientist. He has over 15 years of educational and research experience in health care focusing in clinical nutrition, alternative medicine, holistic healing, chiropractic, medical testing, rehabilitation, physical medicine, nutritional counseling, wellness, and personal training. His seminar presentation experience includes various topics including but not limited to health, healing, nutrition, weight loss, alternative medicine, fitness, rehabilitation, back health and overall wellness. He is the co-owner and founder of Fungus Research, L.L.C., a company dedicated to conquering fungal infections such as nail fungus, toenail fungus, candida, yeast infections and athlete’s foot.