Knowing about foods that fight fungal infections can be an important part of treating this medical condition. Fungal infections of all kinds, including toenail fungus infections, are common and difficult problems faced by millions of Americans. There are several factors that contribute in making someone more susceptible to getting fungal infections, and diet is one of them.
Strengthening the Immune System Through Nutrition
One of the primary ways that foods can aid in healing toenail fungal infections is by strengthening the immune system. The immune system is the first line of defense the body has for repelling invading bacteria, viruses and fungus. Many vitamins and minerals that are found in vegetables are key to healthy immune function. These include;
- Vitamin C,
- Sulfur,
- Biotin,
- Vitamin B-12
- Silicone
Vegetables that are high in these nutrients include fresh garlic, onions, broccoli, kale and seaweed. Other good choices are carrots, spinach and cauliflower. Eating these foods raw in salads, or juicing them, retains the maximum of amount and quality in the vitamins they contain.
Avoiding Sugary Foods to Fight Fungal Infections
Sugar is one of the biggest problem foods when it comes to fungus that has taken hold in the body. Fungus uses sugar as food, so if the diet is high in sugar, fighting fungal infections will be harder. Sugary foods to avoid include:
- Soda of any kind,
- Excessive amounts of fruit and fruit juice,
- White flour products like bread, pastry and pasta,
- Candy and other products containing sugar or high fructose corn syrup
Reducing or eliminating these foods can be challenging, but it will help in fighting fungal infections of any kind.
Other Supplements and Foods That Fight Fungal Infection
People often overlook water as a necessary nutrient, but drinking adequate clean water helps the body flush out toxins of all kinds, including fungus. A minimum of eight 10 ounce glasses of filtered water is recommended daily for good health.
Barberry is a herbal supplement that has shown effectiveness in both strengthening the immune system and fighting infections. Barberry supplements are available in health food stores, but always check with your physician before starting a supplement program.
Lactobacilli acidophilus is a friendly bacteria that is present in the gut and is needed for good digestion. Good digestion leads to better absorption of vitamins, minerals and protein from the diet. Acidophilus can be added to the diet through yogurt and other dairy products that contain it, or it can be taken in pill form as a supplement.
Along with these dietary changes, laser treatment of toenail fungus is an FDA approved therapy available at our clinic. When combined with foods that fight fungal infection, laser treatment can help eliminate toenail fungus.
