We’ve seen all kinds of nail issues. But one that seems to be common among pregnant women is nail fungus. The good news is that there are plenty of natural ways to prevent it. In this post, I’ll share the top 5 natural ways to keep your nails fungus-free during pregnancy.
Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry
When you’re pregnant, your body temperature is naturally higher, which can lead to excessive sweating, especially in your feet. This can create the perfect breeding ground for fungus. So, one of the best ways to prevent nail fungus is to keep your feet clean and dry. This may seem obvious, but it’swashing your feet daily with soap and water and drying them thoroughly, especially between the toes is essential. You don’t want any moisture lingering around where it can attract fungus. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can even give yourself a little foot spa treatment.
Tea Tree Oil: The Magical Fungus Killer
Tea tree oil is an essential oil with antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it a natural remedy for nail fungus. The oil is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca Alternifolia plant, which is native to Australia. It’s also used for other skin conditions, including acne and psoriasis.
To use tea tree oil for nail fungus:
- Start by mixing a few drops of tea tree oil with carrier oil like olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil.
- Apply the mixture to the affected nail and surrounding skin using a cotton ball or swab.
- Rub it into the nail and let it dry.
- Repeat twice daily until the fungus is gone.
And if the tea tree oil doesn’t work, you can always try dipping your feet in a cup of tea. Just kidding. Please don’t do that.
Apple Cider Vinegar: The Stinky but Effective Fungus Fighter
Apple cider vinegar is another natural remedy that has antifungal properties. It’s made from fermented apples and contains acetic acid, which can kill fungi and bacteria. But let’s be honest; apple cider vinegar doesn’t exactly smell like roses. It smells like, well, vinegar. But the stink is worth it if it keeps your nails healthy.
Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl to use apple cider vinegar for nail fungus. Soak the affected nail in the solution for 30 minutes. Dry your feet thoroughly afterward and repeat once daily until the fungus is gone.
And if you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can always use regular vinegar. It won’t be as effective, but at least your feet won’t smell like a salad.
Eat a Healthy Diet: Nourish Your Nails From Within
You’ve heard it before: you are what you eat. And that applies to your nails too. Eating a healthy diet can provide the nutrients your nails need to stay strong and healthy. Foods that are rich in biotin, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids can promote nail growth and prevent nail fungus. Here are some foods to add to your grocery list:
- Lean protein: Chicken, fish, and lean beef contain amino acids that promote nail health.
- Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are high in vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy nails.
- Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and other whole grains contain biotin, which can strengthen nails.
On the other hand, there are also foods that you should avoid if you want to prevent nail fungus. These include sugary and processed foods, weakening your immune system and making you more susceptible to infections.
So, to sum it up: eat your greens, get your protein, and stay away from junk food. Your nails will thank you.
Exercise: Keep Your Feet Moving
Exercise is not only good for your overall health, but it’s also great for your nails. When you exercise, your blood circulation increases, which can help your nails grow and prevent fungal infections. But if you’re pregnant, you might not be able to do high-impact exercises, like running or jumping jacks. Here are some safe exercises to do during pregnancy:
- Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that improves your heart rate and circulation.
- Swimming: Swimming is a great way to stay active without putting pressure on your joints. Plus, it can keep your feet dry, which is essential for preventing nail fungus.
- Yoga: Yoga is an excellent exercise for pregnant women because it’s gentle and can help you relax. And who knows, you might even get a new nail-inspired yoga pose named after you.
When to Seek Medical Treatment
If your nail fungus doesn’t respond to home remedies or worsens, it’s time to see a dermatologist. They can diagnose the type of fungus you have and provide a prescription for a stronger antifungal medication.
And if you’re feeling extra fancy, you can also get a professional pedicure. But ensure the salon follows proper sanitation practices to prevent the spread of nail fungus.
Conclusion
Nail fungus is not only unsightly but also uncomfortable. But with these natural remedies, you can prevent it and keep your nails healthy throughout your pregnancy. From keeping your feet clean and dry to eating a healthy diet, there are many ways to protect your nails from fungus. And if all else fails, you can always dip your feet in tea or vinegar. Just kidding. Please don’t do that.