Nail fungus, called onychomycosis by doctors, is a common infection that can affect your toenails and fingernails. If you have nail fungus, your nails might be discolored, thick, or crumbly.
Several types of fungi can cause this condition, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. The infection isn’t usually painful, but it can be unsightly and even uncomfortable, especially if left untreated.
Traditional treatments include topical and oral antifungal medications. However, some people are also exploring supplements as a way to complement these treatments and boost their body’s natural ability to fight the infection.
Supplements can also support overall nail health, which might help prevent future infections. But, is there enough evidence that supplements can treat nail fungus?
This article will explore the potential benefits of using a supplement for nail fungus, review some popular options, and help you decide whether they are right for you. We’ll cover key ingredients, potential benefits, and important factors to consider when choosing a supplement.
Common Causes and Risk Factors for Nail Fungus
Nail fungus infections can be stubborn and annoying! Most of the time, they’re caused by dermatophytes. These little guys love warm, moist environments – exactly the kind that can develop in your shoes.
Certain things can make you more likely to get nail fungus. These risk factors include:
- Age: Older adults tend to get nail fungus more often because they often have decreased blood flow and slower nail growth.
- Footwear: Wearing closed-toe shoes all the time creates the perfect breeding ground for fungus.
- Health Conditions: If you have diabetes, a weakened immune system, or peripheral vascular disease, you’re more at risk.
- Nail Trauma: Banging or injuring your nail can create a way for the fungus to get in.
- Excessive Sweating: Feet that sweat a lot provide the moisture fungus needs.
- Poor Hygiene: Not keeping your feet clean and dry is a big contributor.
Knowing these risk factors is important! You can prevent nail fungus (or keep it from coming back) by keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing breathable socks, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms and pool decks.
Key Supplements and Their Potential Benefits for Nail Fungus
Can supplements help clear up nail fungus? Here’s what to know.
Biotin
Biotin is a B vitamin that assists with the growth and strength of both nails and hair. It may help to improve nail thickness and reduce brittleness.
Keep in mind that biotin won’t directly kill the fungus causing the infection. However, it can improve the overall health of the nail. Typical dosages vary, so it’s best to talk with a healthcare provider.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E has antioxidant properties and helps protect cells from damage. It can also help improve circulation and support healthy nail growth.
When it comes to nail fungus, vitamin E may improve the appearance of the nail and reduce damage caused by the infection. You can apply vitamin E oil directly to the nail to moisturize and protect it.
Tea Tree Oil (as a supplement or related treatment)
Tea tree oil has antifungal properties thanks to a compound called terpinen-4-ol. It’s important to note that tea tree oil is for topical use only; it should not be swallowed.
You can apply tea tree oil directly to the affected nail, but you should dilute it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, to avoid irritation. Some people use tea tree oil as part of a nail fungus treatment plan.
Other Potential Supplements
Here are some other supplements that may help with nail fungus:
- Undecylenic Acid: This is a fatty acid with antifungal properties.
- Caprylic Acid: This fatty acid, derived from coconut oil, is also known for its antifungal properties.
- Probiotics: Probiotics can help support a healthy gut microbiome, which may indirectly benefit nail health by boosting the immune system.
What supplements are people using for nail fungus?
You can find a wide variety of products that people market as a way to deal with nail fungus. These come in the form of capsules, oils, creams, and other preparations.
Here are a few products you may see for sale:
Fungus Eliminator Extreme
This product is marketed as a way to regrow healthy nails and improve overall nail health, but it’s important to unmask the truth about Fungus Eliminator ingredients. Sellers claim it can support healthy nail growth and give you healthier skin and hair, too.
Fungus Exodus
Fungus Exodus is marketed as a way to fight toenail fungus and restore your nails to a healthy state. You can buy it in various quantities, such as a two-pack or a three-pack.
Kerassentials
Kerassentials is marketed as a way to get healthy skin and nails; before using it, consider these 5 reasons to try (or skip) Kerassentials oil for toenails. You can buy single bottles or multi-packs.
Fungus Clear Nails Plus
This product contains nano colloidal silver drops and is marketed as a natural remedy that supports your immune system.
It’s important to remember that none of these products have been proven to eliminate nail fungus. Also, the FDA doesn’t regulate these products the way it regulates prescription medications.
Important: Supplements aren’t a replacement for getting traditional medical treatments from a healthcare professional.
How to Choose the Right Supplement
When you’re trying to treat nail fungus, it’s easy to get drawn in by the advertising for supplements. It’s important to remember that “natural” doesn’t always mean “safe” or “effective.” Here’s how to choose the right supplement for you:
Talk to a healthcare professional
Before you start taking a new supplement, check with a doctor or podiatrist (foot doctor). They can help you figure out how bad the infection is and what the best way to treat it will be.
Look for quality ingredients
When you’re shopping for a supplement, read the label closely. Make sure the active ingredients are listed and that the amounts are high enough to be effective. It’s also a good idea to look for products that have been tested by a third-party organization to make sure they’re pure and potent.
Read customer reviews
See what other people are saying about the supplement. Look for reviews from people who’ve actually used the product, and pay attention to both positive and negative feedback.
Think about interactions and side effects
Supplements can sometimes interact with medications you’re already taking, so it’s important to be aware of any potential risks. Start with a low dose and see how your body reacts before gradually increasing it.
What Else Can You Do About Nail Fungus?
Supplements for nail fungus may help some people, but there are many other things you can do to treat it.
Topical antifungal medications
For mild to moderate infections, your doctor may recommend an antifungal cream or solution that you apply directly to the nail. These medications don’t always work, but they’re often worth a try.
Oral antifungal medications
For more severe infections, your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal medication. These medications can have side effects, so your doctor will want to monitor you while you’re taking them.
Proper nail hygiene
No matter what else you do, it’s important to keep your nails clean, dry, and trimmed. When you trim them, cut straight across rather than rounding the edges. And don’t share nail clippers or files with anyone else.
Lifestyle modifications
There are also some lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent nail fungus or keep it from getting worse. These include:
- Wearing breathable socks and shoes
- Avoiding walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms and swimming pools
- Treating any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your nail fungus, such as diabetes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one cure for toenail fungus?
There’s no single “number one” cure for toenail fungus that works for everyone. Treatment success depends on factors like the severity of the infection, the type of fungus, and individual response. Oral antifungal medications, like terbinafine, are often considered highly effective, but they come with potential side effects. Topical treatments may work for milder cases.
Is weight gain a side effect of terbinafine?
Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of terbinafine. However, any medication can affect individuals differently. If you experience unexplained weight gain while taking terbinafine, it’s best to consult with your doctor to rule out other potential causes.
What is the best natural antifungal for nails?
Several natural remedies are believed to possess antifungal properties, including tea tree oil, oregano oil, and apple cider vinegar. Tea tree oil is perhaps the most well-researched, with some studies showing its effectiveness against certain types of fungi. However, natural remedies may not be as potent as prescription medications and should be used with caution.
What nutrient fights toenail fungus?
While no single nutrient directly “fights” toenail fungus, maintaining a healthy immune system through proper nutrition can support the body’s ability to combat infections. Nutrients like vitamin D, zinc, and probiotics may play a role in immune function. However, diet alone is unlikely to cure toenail fungus, and medical treatment is usually necessary.
What kills nail fungus the fastest?
Oral antifungal medications typically work faster than topical treatments. Terbinafine and itraconazole are commonly prescribed and can lead to visible improvement within a few months. However, complete eradication of the fungus can take several months or even a year, as it requires the growth of a completely new, healthy nail.
Closing Thoughts
Supplements can be a great addition to your nail fungus treatment plan. They can help support healthy nails, boost your immune system, and reduce inflammation, all of which can help you fight off the fungus.
Keep in mind that supplements are not a replacement for medical treatment, so you should still talk with your doctor about your infection. Always get medical advice from a professional before starting any new supplements.
The best way to treat nail fungus is to take a holistic approach, focusing on ultimate toenail care for good! That means practicing good hygiene, changing your lifestyle where needed, and seeking medical interventions when needed. When you combine all these strategies, you’ll have a much better chance of getting rid of the infection and preventing it from coming back.