The REAL Cause of Toenail Fungus is ..

Have you ever noticed changes in your toenails—maybe a little discoloration or thickening? These might be early signs of a fungal nail infection, a surprisingly common condition.

But it’s not just about aesthetics. Effective toenail fungus treatment requires understanding what’s happening beneath the surface, addressing the root cause along with the visible symptoms.

It's time we approach our health like we do a car’s engine light—by looking "under the hood." We wouldn't just disconnect a car’s engine light, would we? We'd figure out what's wrong.

Yet, many only address toenail fungus with topical treatments or oral antifungals, often ignoring the underlying cause.

What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus, often resistant to conventional treatments, begs the question: Why do some people get it while others don’t? Research reveals some surprising links.

Diabetes and Toenail Fungus: A Closer Look

Did you know that individuals with diabetes are significantly more likely to experience fungal nail infections? A research study showed that almost 50% of individuals with diabetes also suffer from toenail fungus.

That’s because high blood sugar creates an ideal environment for fungal growth. Addressing blood sugar regulation is crucial, even as part of toenail fungus treatment.

When your blood sugar is high, it can leak into your nail bed, creating a breeding ground for fungus. This is why people with diabetes are more likely to get toenail fungus.

If you have diabetes, it's important to manage your blood sugar levels to help prevent toenail fungus.

Stress, Cortisol and Your Immune System

Chronic stress, leading to elevated cortisol (a stress hormone), weakens the immune system, making us vulnerable. Think about it—people with Cushing’s syndrome, a condition characterized by high cortisol levels, are also prone to toenail fungus.

This emphasizes that managing stress is about more than just mental wellbeing—it impacts our physical health too. Stress can manifest in physical ways, including a weakened immune system.

A weakened immune system makes it difficult for your body to fight off infection, including fungal infections of the nail. Finding ways to manage stress can have positive impacts on many areas of your health.

Spleen Health and Toenail Fungus

Your spleen plays a crucial role in immune function. Those who’ve had their spleen removed face a higher risk of fungal infections, including toenail fungus.

This highlights how a healthy, functioning immune system is our best defense against these issues. The spleen filters your blood and removes harmful bacteria and viruses.

When your spleen is removed or not functioning correctly, you are more vulnerable to infection. It's important to discuss your spleen health with your doctor, especially if you have a history of fungal infections.

Your Body’s Internal Battlefield: The Mycobiome

Just as we have good and bad bacteria, we also have beneficial and harmful fungi residing within us, collectively known as the mycobiome. When this delicate balance is disrupted, pathogenic fungi, like those responsible for toenail fungus, can thrive.

Our immune system, including those beneficial microbes and fungi, works tirelessly to keep these pathogens in check.

However, factors like antibiotics, a high-sugar diet, or chronic stress can disrupt this balance, making us susceptible to infections, including stubborn toenail fungus.

Things like dietary changes, reducing stress, and avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics are ways you can support your mycobiome.

Talk to your healthcare provider about additional steps you can take to improve your overall health and well-being.

How to Approach Toenail Fungus Treatment Effectively

Effective toenail fungus treatment takes a holistic approach—think of it as tending to a garden. You need the right tools (remedies) and to cultivate a healthy environment (your body).

Strengthen Your Defenses: Boosting Your Immune System

Just like a strong wall protects a city, a robust immune system defends your body. We can bolster our internal defenses in several ways. Start by getting enough vitamin D, an essential nutrient often overlooked.

Vitamin D helps your body fight infection, so it's important to make sure you're getting enough. You can get vitamin D from sunlight, food, and supplements. Talk to your healthcare provider about the right amount of vitamin D for you.

Additionally, embrace intermittent fasting, a practice that can enhance your immune function.

Epsom Salt Soaks: More Than Just Relaxation

Epsom salts, often associated with soothing baths, offer surprising benefits as a potential part of toenail fungus treatment. The magnesium sulfate in Epsom salt can create an inhospitable environment for fungus.

To enjoy the potential benefits of an Epsom salt soak, add a cup of Epsom salt to warm water and soak your feet for 20 minutes. You can do this several times a week.

The Power of Iodine: Natural Antimicrobial

Iodine is a potent antimicrobial, effectively killing a wide range of bacteria and fungi, including those causing toenail fungus. Consider adding decolorized or povidone-iodine to your toenail fungus treatment regimen.

Apply a drop to the affected nail, letting it seep in before bedtime. Always test a small area of skin first to check for any sensitivity or allergic reactions before applying it to larger areas or to broken skin.

It's also crucial to keep iodine out of reach of children and pets.

Natural Allies: Tea Tree, Oregano, Clove and Lavender Oils

Nature provides us with powerful tools. Tea tree oil, with its antifungal properties, is a popular choice. Oregano oil is another potent option, known for its ability to combat various fungal strains.

And don’t underestimate the power of clove oil—this kitchen staple possesses potent antifungal effects. Lavender, a beautifully scented oil, is more than meets the nose—it acts as a formidable antimicrobial agent.

Adding a few drops of these oils to a foot soak or applying diluted versions directly to the nail can provide additional support. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, before applying them to your skin.

Lifestyle Changes for Lasting Results

While these remedies offer effective support, long-term toenail fungus treatment involves making lifestyle changes that nourish your body and prevent recurrence.

Because sugar feeds fungus, embrace a proper diet, incorporating cruciferous vegetables, to help manage blood sugar levels.

Cruciferous vegetables are low in sugar and high in fiber, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels. Some examples of cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale.

Additionally, consider incorporating probiotics and fermented foods into your diet to promote a healthy balance within your gut, positively impacting your immune system.

Conclusion

Dealing with toenail fungus can be frustrating, but remember, it’s usually a symptom of something deeper.

By looking at the bigger picture and addressing the root cause, we empower ourselves to choose the most effective course of toenail fungus treatment and prevent its recurrence, fostering overall well-being.

This approach goes beyond just addressing the symptom—it’s about nurturing true, lasting health from within.

FAQs about toenail fungus treatment

What is the fastest way to cure toenail fungus?

While everyone wants a quick fix, the fastest way to cure toenail fungus safely is to consult a healthcare professional for an individualized treatment plan based on your specific situation. Treatment options may include prescription antifungal medications.

What is the number one cure for toenail fungus?

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all “number one” cure for toenail fungus. Successful treatment depends on factors such as the type of fungus, severity, and overall health condition.

It is important to practice good foot hygiene. Keep your feet clean and dry. Wear shoes in public places, such as locker rooms and swimming pools.

Avoid sharing nail clippers and other personal care items. These things can help you avoid getting a fungal nail infection.

What absolutely kills toenail fungus?

While natural remedies can be helpful, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine what works best in your particular situation. Be wary of any claims guaranteeing to “absolutely kill” toenail fungus.

Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?

Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor and eucalyptus oil, known for their antifungal properties. However, scientific evidence to support Vicks as an effective treatment specifically for nail fungus remains limited.

It’s best used alongside other proven treatments and lifestyle adjustments.