All posts by tina

The Best Way To Dry Wet Sweaty Shoes and Boots

During World War I, soldiers were often teamed up with “buddies”, responsible for inspecting each other’s feet. Standing for hours in waterlogged trenches without being able to remove wet socks or boots led to serious medical conditions.

For the troopers there wasn’t much to do except for changing to dry socks every few hours. Together with covering their feet with whale oil grease this was how the British soldiers kept damage to a minimum by the end of 1915.

Nowadays, we’re not dealing with “trench foot” anymore. Yet still, many of us are dealing with somewhat similar unsanitary conditions when it comes to footwear.

Are your shoes really dry?

Whether those Nikes are soaked from a rainy jog, your pumps moist from splash puddle water or your UGGs are drained in sweat, the consequences will be the same if you don’t let them dry really well.

All too often are our shoes, boots, and socks damp while we may not even know it. We have let those sneakers air out for a whole day before putting them on again right?

As far as that may be true, that doesn’t necessarily mean they are dry enough. Dry as in inhabitable for the bacteria and fungi playing an essential role in the stink.

Shoes may seem dry, but due to the absorbent nature of the materials footwear is made from, looks and feel can be deceiving.

The importance of keeping your shoes dry

As it was back then for the men on the battlefield, for us modern day civilians too it is highly recommended to keep or feet and footwear thoroughly dry since the replication of bacteria thriving on humidity is the ultimate source of the pungent smell.

In other words, keeping footwear dry is essential in combating foot odor.

You know what’s so strange?

We all know that thoroughly washing and dusting our feet with foot powder is important and washing and drying our feet and socks is common practice but our shoes are commonly neglected when it comes to this.

Bacteria and fungi love your damp boots. Clean and dry them regularly

Reasons to keep shoes dry include;

White, macerated foot soles in squishy shoes are more prone to damp footwear related conditions.

The typical musty odor shoes develop stems from bacteria and fungi thriving in damp conditions. Since these unwanted guests grow rapidly in high humidity fungal infections develop more quickly.

Athlete’s Foot is one of those conditions caused by a fungus,

as is onychomycosis, an infection underneath the surface of the nail also referred to as toenail fungus

Plantar hidradenitis, often found in hildren with a “common recent history of exposure to cold, damp, footwear”, according to PubMed.

The human papillomavirus that causes plantar warts can also thrive in damp shoes. (it’s not very easily spread but small skin cracks could offer a way for the virus to enter your body).

Other harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi such as including Staph and MRSA, also thrive on damp shoes.

Make sure to take the time to regularly inspect your feet, and look for redness or itchy areas between your toes since such problem areas can quickly spread to other parts of your feet.

Shoes are dark, warm, and moist—the perfect place for fungus, bacteria and other microbes to grow

You can sprinkle your socks and shoes with foot powder or baking soda all you want. You can wash them with surgical soap, you can soak them in apple cider vinegar.

But if your shoes or boots are still a tad bit wet those bacteria will keep on spreading, feeding on your sweat and skin cells, and thus producing that dreaded stench.

How to end the embarrassment

The reason we often feel awkward about our feet stinking is because it automatically brings about the association with being unhygienic. We feel embarrassed since people will probably think insufficient hygiene plays a role.

And if you’ve been one of those unfortunate souls who’s slipped out of their sweaty sneakers while running, you will know it’s uncomfortable, embarrassing and can be even dangerous.

You will know what I mean when you had to stop the treadmill because the belt got all wet and slippery. Here’s a remedy for reducing the amount your feet sweat.

Foot odor is not a sign of being unclean, it’s a symptom of allowing those bacteria to have their way and one essential method in stopping them is maintaining dry footwear.

You can prevent this embarrassment and discomfort by ensuring your footwear is perfectly dry at all times. After all, it’s mold and bacteria that make (running) shoes stink.

The best ways to keep your footwear dry

Take the necessary precautions, whether you are an athlete who wants to keep his or her home from smelling like a rugby team locker room.

Or maybe because you need your shoes to dry out in between spin classes, or you are just someone who sweats a lot in their shoes. In fact, on average we sweat about half a pint through our feet every day. Which makes you realize how important dehydration is.

Here are things you can do to dry your shoes.

Rotate footwear. Don’t wear those squishy shoes before they are absolutely dry. Use alternate shoes until the other pair is dry again. Allowing extra time for footwear to dry in between use will reduce wetness

This is the old-fashioned DIY way. The method my grandma used. Stuffing shoes with balled up wads of newspapers can help pull moisture from your footwear. If your shoes are really wet the paper will be saturated quickly and replacing it will be required. You may have to do this several times before the shoes are completely dry.

A similar shoe drying hack although probably more effective as it dries footwear faster and removes bad odors too. Fill nylons or tights with cat litter or Cedar chips and let them sit overnight to absorb moist and smell.

Some people use silica gel desiccant packets to remove moist from their shoes. You know, those little packs they put with your new electronics.

Place your shoes near the heater, heating vent or fan. The heat and circulating air will dry them and reduce the amount of bacteria. Be cautious with extreme heat though since this could dissolve the glue in footwear damaging them.

Replace inserts, wash them, dry them. If you suspect they are beyond help , toss them and get new ones. This is actually an additional measure, not an effective way of drying footwear.

Use a wash and dry bag for dryer and washer. I admit to having thrown my runners in the dryer once in a while. I now know this is detrimental to shoes and could damage the dryer too. Luckily there are special mesh bags that attach to the dryers door so while still inside the drum the shoes are prevented from tumbling while still benefiting from the hot circulating air. What’s even better, the bags can be used in the washing machine too.

StuffIts drying inserts combine cedar wood filling with a moisture-wicking fabric to draw out moisture and mask foul odor. Pathogens are prevented from growing on the inserts due to an antimicrobial coating. With an Amazon rating of 5/5 stars this is a very well-reviewed product designed to keep your shoes dry.

Put your shoes in the sun. Preferably with the inside exposed to the light as much as possible. UV light kills bacteria. Depending on where you live this option is obviously not always available.

Get a boot/shoe dryer. These devices dry your shoes relatively quick and they do it well. Popular models are Sterishoe dryer and the Peet shoe dryer. While they dry footwear really well they may not remove all foul odors, especially in older shoes.

The best way to dry wet shoes?

If you suffer from sweaty, smelly feet a shoe dryer is the best way to dry your shoes.

Here’s why.

You sweat a lot so your shoes need regular drying. Being dependent on the weather (for sunshine) or tinkering with crumpled newspapers is just too much of a hassle.

Also, the newspaper method may work for rainy boots but for damp shoes due to sweaty feet it’s probably not efficient enough.

Having to turn on the dryer almost every day doesn’t make much sense either if you know there are dedicated, more energy and thus cost-efficient devices specifically designed to do what you need. Drying shoes.

Shoe dryers are (commonly inexpensive) gadgets well worth the costs. Some of them not only remove moisture but also have a disinfection feature too.

Recommended shoe & boot dryer:

The Peet M97-FSB is stable, sturdy, silent and affordable. It fits all kinds of shoes and dries even the soggiest heavy steel-toed work boots without wobbling.

The Peet M97-FSB is able to dry sopping wet shoes in a matter of hours. Its ceramic heating elements have a self-limiting temperature ability thus protecting your shoes from damaging by excess heat.

For this relatively affordable expense you will get convenience in the form of ease of use in return. And in the long run, your shoes will last longer. Not to forget, you are reducing the risk on infections and stinky feet.

NEW: shoe dryer, deodorizer and sanitizer:

StinkBOSS Shoe Sanitizer, Deodorizer & Dryer Review

Your Diet May Cause Foot Odor – Foods to Avoid and Eat

Cures, Natural curestina

Everybody knows that your diet influences the way you smell. It’s common knowledge that eating heaps of garlic the day before a first date may not be conducive to the atmosphere (and outcome) of the rendezvous.

Just as there’s truth to the fact that people who eat lots of dairy seem to have a distinct body odor in the perception of those who are less fond of dairy.

And following this logic there’s also a possible link between your diet and the way your tootsies reek. Of course, body, and thus foot odor, is also determined by your overall health, genetics, and personal hygiene.

Foot odor is a problem that many people struggle with. It’s embarrassing and limits your freedom. You’ll think twice going to that friend’s house with white carpet when you know you’re going to have to take your shoes off inside the door.

When eliminating, or significantly reducing, foot odor it can be helpful to pay more attention to your diet.

In fact, the foods you eat play a major role in the odors produced by your body, and altering that diet can help get rid of that embarrassing smell. Here’s which foods to avoid and which foods to eat more often.

Foods to avoid

Foods high in sulfur

A number of compounds found in foods, such as sulfites, can produce an unpleasant smell when they are broken down in the body and released through sweat. Foods that are considered healthy may need to be avoided. Some vegetables when digested are broken down into sulfur-like compounds, which can create unpleasant smells.

Some people have a food sensitivity to sulfites causing a prominent odor sometimes described as an onion smell.

Vegetables like broccoli, fish like salmon and tuna, and red meats can also cause unwanted odors. Onion, garlic, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, beer, tea, and coffee are examples of sulfur rich foods. Eliminating such foods can help clear up foul foot odor.

Don’t overdo it though with the cutting back because sulfur-containing vegetables are very healthy. They contain unique potent anti-carcinogenic compounds.

Sweat inducing foods

Foods that make you overproduce sweat. Both spicy and foods that are temperature wise hot, such as hot soup can make you perspire. Consuming less of these can assist you in your attempt to eliminate foot odor.

A good place to start is by limiting foods that are spicy such as peppers, greasy such as fast food, chocolate, and white bread, high in fat such as high fat milk, high in sodium (salt) and contain elements such as caffeine.

These foods increase sweat production so unfortunately you may have to curb the coffee and fried chicken cravings.

Refined carbs

Another major culprit are foods that are considered refined carbs. These include white bread, white pasta, white rice and pastries. Many pastries contain flour and refined carbs that contribute to body odor.

Strive for a balance of complex carbs, healthy fats and protein to reduce stinky feet.

Dr. Robert A. Kornfeld, the founder of the Institute for Integrative Podiatric Medicine mentions:

“Diets high in refined carbohydrates will often serve as food for bacteria and fungus in the body. The body intends to rid itself of bacteria through dead skin cells. However, when they collect in the skin of the foot through perspiration and are enclosed in a shoe, the odor can become extreme.”

With that being said, don make the mistake thinking low carb is the way to go.

Low carb diet

When on low carbohydrate diets people often consume high amounts of protein. A common side effect of such diets is keto breath or ketosis odor.

The lack of carbs makes the body increase ketone production causing the distinct smell often described as acetone or rotting fruit.

Such diets can result in quite the odorous process:

I’ve done the no carb / low carb system before and it really seems to be the only thing that works for me but this time around I have noticed that my feet REALLY stink. Now, before you tell me I am crazy or give me the “get new shoes” routine I have to say this – I’ve never had stinky feet. Sure there were some days that they weren’t smelling like a bed of roses but these are like DEATH FEET.(source: Elite Fitness)

Protein rich foods

High protein foods such as eggs, fish and red meat are commonly high in compounds such a choline and carnitine. When these compounds are broken down in the body it can lead to the production of trimethylamine, a substance known to produce a fishy smell. Fish particularly rich in choline are tuna and salmon.

Yeast and sugar

An overabundance of yeast and sugar may contribute to bacterial growth which is a the indirect cause of smelly feet. Reduce your intake of yeast and sugar containing foods.

Note: of course adjusting your diet will work best when you take other measures too. Here’s the multi-modal cure that helped me get rid of the smell.

This wide range of foods that influence body odor and potentially your stinky feet may have you wonder, is there anything left to eat?

Yep, rest assured, there is. Everybody is different and maintaining a well-balanced varied diet is essential to your health. It’s probably best to see if you eat lots of a particular food mentioned here. If you do, try eliminating it for a while from your diet and see if it helps.

Apart from that,

Foods to eat

A more proactive approach in getting rid of the pong could be by incorporating nutrients in your diet that are known to reduce body odor.

There are tons of foods out there that won’t contribute to that embarrassing scent. Foods that are high in fiber like fruit and leafy vegetables help to flush out the system and get rid of existing toxins.

Fruits and chlorophyll rich foods

Eating things like citrus fruit and kale are thought to produce a sweeter body and foot odor. Green leafy vegetables, super sprouts, kelp, and seaweed are high in chlorophyll which is known to remove toxins from the body.

Wild edible greens such as chickweed, miners lettuce, micro-algae and watercress are abundant sources of “wild chlorophyll”. This nutrient could is said to boost wound and ulcer healing and is thought to help combat foot odor too.

These claims however have not been proven by clinical evidence and more research is needed to confirm these claims.

Herbs

These foods, along with spices and herbs such as mint, peppermint, parsley, and rosemary contain chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a compound that aids in the neutralization of many odors before they’re processed and emitted through the skin in sweat.

Sage is a herb that aids in reducing sweat, leaving less of a chance that smelly compounds will make their way to the surface of your skin.

Zinc

A lack of zinc in your diet can cause stinky feet. Make sure you’re getting enough zinc by eating zinc rich foods or by taking zinc supplements.

The RDA for men is about 11 grams and for women it is about 8. Zinc-rich foods are peanuts, wheat germ, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate. You can also use zinc cream for stinky feet

Wrapping it up

Certain foods form compounds contributing to sweat and unpleasant smells. Limiting those can go a long way in reducing distress and embarrassment of your malodorous feet.

Making an effort to eat more foods that neutralize or improve body odor can be helpful too in curing those dreaded stinky feet.

Maintaining a healthy diet not only improves your overall health but it can also keep you smelling sweet.

Don’t forget about The Holy Quaternity when it comes to ridding yourself of smelly feet:

regularly wash with a good antibacterial soap,

reduce the amount your feet sweat with this substance,

wear the right socks,

use odor controlling insoles and foot/ shoe powder.

Zinc Cream For Foot Odor, Does It Work?

Curestina

Zinc is an essential mineral that is present in just about every aspect of our lives. This abundant mineral is present in our food, in the ground we walk on, in the air we breathe, in many of the products that we use each day, and even in the cells that make up our bodies.

That’s right, zinc is present in every cell of the human body. So, naturally, zinc is essential to our health and well-being. In our modern day it’s used in many forms, for instance in acne creams, as an active ingredient in antidandruff shampoos and for the treatment of Bromodosis (the medical name for smelly feet).

Foot powders, aka powder deodorants also often contain zinc sulphate.

Even doctors in ancient civilizations were aware of the medicinal value of zinc. In 2013, a team of Italian researchers discovered that zinc was present in medicine tablets found in the cargo of a Roman ship which had sunk off the coast of Tuscany nearly 2,200 years ago. The thin sealed vessels had been kept dry preserving the pills in the 2,000-year-old medicine chest for all this time.

The ancients were correct. Today, zinc is still coveted for its numerous health benefits. Not only is zinc used to enhance healing in the human body, it is well documented that zinc is necessary for the functioning of enzymes within the body, and that it also plays a crucial role in the development of healthy cells in the body.

However, it is not as well known that zinc – zinc creams, in particular – can also be used to cure foot odor. The science behind this claim is very simple. Foot odor is most often caused by an abundant growth of bacteria on the foot and their feeding on sweat and skin cells.

Zinc just happens to be a natural anti-bacterial agent.

Moreover, zinc sulphate is also a topical astringent. This means that it helps reduce excessive perspiration by closing pores and thus sweat glands. (pores are the openings of oil and sweat glands and hair follicles.

It is no wonder why podiatrists point to zinc deficiencies in patients who have suffered through long-term foot odor problems. Without a healthy level of zinc in their bodies, these patients simply have a hard time fighting off the bacteria that is causing their embarrassment. Therefore, sometimes zinc supplementation can be helpful in combating foot odor.

Attaining sufficient dietary zinc is a common problem. A USA study showed that 56% of the subjects surveyed (29,103 in total) were found to have an adequate zinc intake.

Zinc cream, an effective topical cure for smelly feet

Zinc cream offers a more concentrated dose of the natural anti-bacterial properties of the mineral, and this is why zinc can most effectively combat foot odor when used in a cream.

In one scientific study carried out to determine the effectiveness of zinc cream in the curing of foot odor, it was determined that 15% zinc sulphate solution performed extremely well.

Using two groups of subjects – one group being treated with zinc sulphate cream, and the control group being treated with a placebo – researchers were able to determine that 70 percent of the subjects in the group using the zinc cream were cured of foot odor after two weeks of this topical treatment.

However, barely 2 percent of the subjects in the other (placebo) group were cured of this embarrassing problem. Source, Scirp.org.

Owing to its antibacterial action, topical zinc sulphate has been tried and found effective in the management of axillary bromhidrosis and plantar malodor. Sharquie et al. [1]

Side effects?

According to the researchers no side effects were reported.
So, if you have tried various cures and still struggle with and continue to be embarrassed by foot odor you may want to try this promising cure available in the form of zinc cream.

How to use zinc cream?

In order to be used most effectively, it is recommended to follow the regimen the study.

Make sure to apply the zinc cream to your feet – specifically the areas between the toes and the foot sole- immediately after washing the feet at least three times a week.

As a maintenance measure, to keep the foul odor from coming back the people in the study kept applying zinc sulphate ointment once a week for the next two monts.

Soon, just like the subjects involved in the study above, foot odor can be a thing of the past for you too.

Another popular agent often used to keep sweaty body parts dry and reduce body odor is zinc oxide powder. Zinc oxide is a common ingredient in medicated baby powders and ointments and lotions. It keeps the areas dry, works as a deodorant and anti-perspirant, and kills the bacteria.

Remember,

Make sure to wash your feet with a good antibacterial soap and wear the right socks.

Did you try zinc cream yet? Did it work for you?

Share your experiences below so we can all benefit from each other’s efforts.

1 K. E. Sharquie, A. A. Noaimi, and S. D. Hameed, “Topical 15% zinc sulfate solution is an effective therapy for feet odor,” Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications, vol. 3, pp. 203–208, 2013.

Warning! Wash Your Feet With Antibacterial Soap? Don’t Use This Soap!

Curestina

Antibacterial soaps are often overused. Most experts agree that washing your hands with normal soap is just as efficient for most normal day to day moments.

After all, we aren’t surgeons preparing for conducting an operation. But we do act as such feeling the need to almost obssesively sanitze our hands.

We have been led to believe by powerful marketing machines that bacteria lurk everywhere and we that are far from safe without our antibacterial wipes, soaps, and gels.

The truth however is that those antibacterial soaps may do more harm than good.

Don’t get me wrong here, using an antibacterial soap for your smelly feet is one of the essential elements of the cure. (Or, for that matter, another substance with a potent bactericidal activity such as a rub or lotion.)

However, for your hands, often you can do without such a potent germ killer. And for your feet it’s probably wise to be picky about which soap you use.

Be picky about your antibacterial foot soap

Many antibacterial soaps contain the active ingredient Triclosan. Which is a rather harsh substance.

The antibactericidal chemical Triclosan is absorbed by the blood (and even transferred to fetuses in pregnant women)

is a potential endocrine disruptor,

is known to encourage bacterial resistance to antibiotics,

is linked to thyroid dysfunction,

can disrupt hormones and impair muscle contraction

is linked to liver toxicity,

is linked to higher incidence rates of hay fever and food allergies in children.

The dirty side of soap

A just published (Nov. 17, 2014) study conducted by researchers at University of California, San Diego School of Medicine shows triclosan causes liver fibrosis and cancer in laboratory mice. The development of the disease in mice follows a molecular mechanism that shows humans are also at risk.

On a larger scale it has also shown to end up in public water causing potentially serious problems.

The American Medical Association says its best not to use triclosan in the home at all.

Triclosan is ocassionally found in shampoos, toothpastes, deodorants, mouthwashes, and cleaning products.

Check the labels to be sure it’s not in your products or use the Think Dirty app that lets you scan health products and provides a safety score based on its ingredients.

Back to sweaty feet.

Which antibacterial soap should you use for you smelly feet?

If you can’t use an antibacterial soap for your feet that contains triclosan, which soap should you use?

When it comes to desinfecting, germ-killing soaps and rubs there are roughly four types based on their active ingredients:

Handwashes

Derman plus (triclosan),

Hibiscrub (chlorhexidine)

Betadine (PVP-iodine)

Surgical hand rubs

Sterillium and Softaman, (active ingredient=alcohols)

It’s clear we say goodbye to Derman Plus. Which one should we get? Hibiscrub or Betadine? Or one of the alcohol based products?

This PubMed study shows that Hibiscrub has a more potent antibacterial action than the other two handwashes.

All five products achieved a reduction of test bacteria within 3 min [..]. However, only Hibiscrub, Sterillium and Softa Man met the requirements of prEN 12791, giving a mean reduction of resident micro-organisms (immediate and sustained effect).

The surgical hand rubs score equally as good regarding antibacterial properties so in theory these might be good alternatives as well. I haven’t used any of those though. Nor do many people if I’m correct. If you do, let me know if it works for you in the comments.

That’s why, for washing your sweaty smelly feet, I recommend Hibiscrub. It’s a popular choice. Many people use it to reduce the amount of odor causing bacteria on their feet.

Side Effects Of Extremely Sweaty Feet (Plantar Hyperhidrosis )

Uncategorizedtina

Having sweaty, smelly feet stinks. Not only literally but also because it can cause various adverse effects.

The medical term for severe, chronic sweating of the feet is plantar hyperhidrosis.

plantar – concerning the sole of the foot.
hyperhidrosis – excessive sweating.

What is plantar hyperhidrosis?

We all sweat in order to cool down our bodies. Otherwise we would overheat. Your body has millions of sweat glands which are concentrated in your feet, hands and forehead.

Most of these sweat glands are so called eccrine glands which secrete a clear, odorless fluid that plays a role in evaporative heat loss.

When these eccrine glands are overactive they cause much sweating and we speak of hyperhidrosis.

So although this sweat, basically water and salt, does not stink it will soon when bacteria living on your feet start to feed on it.

Why does it cause your feet to stink?

Bacteria called Staphylococcus epidermidis, Brevibacterium linens, and Bacillus subtilis feed on an amino acid called leucine, found in the sweat produced by the eccrine glands in your feet.

Ironically, especially the bacteria with subtilis in their name are responsible for a truly offensive odor. Brevibacterium linens however is most often the cause of foot odor. This smell is also called plantar bromhidrosis.

When these bacteria feed on leucine, isovaleric acid is released. This is the well-known penetrating scent that makes Swiss cheese so quickly recognizable. Just as it immediately lets you know someone has smelly feet.

In some people this condition is pretty severe. By taking of his or her shoes they can clear out a room faster than a gassy skunk on a chili bean diet.

But not only the stench is a problem.

Profusely sweating of the feet can cause some other nasty side effects too.

Hyperhidrosis side effects

Plantar hyperhidrosis/ bromhidrosis interferes with your daily activities and can seriously affect your quality of life.

Excessive sweating in the feet can contribute to secondary infections and other skin problems on their feet. Hyperhidrosis often requires medical care.

Complications of plantar hyperhidrosis include:

Macerated skin. The constantly moist feet become more vulnerable. Skin may become white, wrinkled, and cracked. Skin degradation can cause the feet to become tender or painful.

Scaling of the feet. Peeling and scaling on the bottom of the feet and in between the toes. Recognized by scaly loose skin, red skin or white areas between your toes and under your feet.

Itchy feet. Often caused by athlete’s foot or atopic dermatitis. The feet may become painful too.

Skin texture abnormalities such as small craters (pitting)

Blisters. Sore skin is more likely to form blisters.

Fungal infections. Mycosis. If your feet sweat profusively you are likely to be prone to skin infections. These infections can range from warts (Verruca plantaris) to ringworm and fungal nails.

Athlete’s foot. Ringworm of the foot, tinea pedis. The immoderate moisture increases the chance on development of athlete’s foot. The fungi that cause this condition require moisture and warmth to grow and thrive.

Other skin conditions. Certain skin conditions, such as eczema and skin rashes, occur more frequently in people with (plantar) hyperhidrosis.

Skin inflammation. Contact dermatitis. Excessive sweating may worsen skin inflammation causing the area to become red and inflamed.

Slippery feet in sandals and other footwear may cause dangerous situations.

Social and emotional effects. Psychosocial discomfort. Having smelly, hot, painful feet and perspiration-soaked socks can be embarrassing and cause stress. Especially when it’s required to take off or switch footwear.

Potassium Permanganate Helps You Get Rid Of Foot Odor

Uncategorizedtina

Do your feet sweat a lot? And do they stink?

Some people, I’m not thinking of someone in particular, ahum.., can have smelly feet to the point it will knock you backwards.

And of course we can make a bit of fun about it (after all humor tends to ease things) but if you have smelly feet like I did you know it’s not funny.

The embarrasment and discomfort are serious detrimental influences on your quality of life.

The malodorous foot is often the subject of humor & lighthearted concern, but in reality, it can cause profound psychologic trauma and can ruin expensive shoes, socks, and stockings. Walter J. Pedowitz. M.D.

Source: SagePub.

I know how it is to be ashamed to take your shoes off.

Even though, at that moment, after walking a lot, taking them off is actually needed to air out your shoes and socks and feet.

But even more so to cool off and relieve your feet a little bit.

But you don’t have the guts if you are with people you are not really familiar with. And even if you are, it’s not something you are looking forward to, it’s just awkward every time because the smell can be really bad.

And because you don’t dare to take your shoes off the heat, the smell (plantar bromhidrosis), the bacteria growth in your shoes and socks is only increasing.

Causing more discomfort. A viscious circle of shame and smell so to say.

We are constantly bombarded with media fears that our feet are unfortunately fragrant and offensive to others. Much plantar sweating is emotionally stimulated (e.g., love, fear, an important interview), and the subsequent odor production may be self-perpetuating. If left untreated, the pungent aroma can foul the environment, lead to social exclusion, and cause needless destruction of fashionable shoes.

That’s why so many people are searching for the best cure. The most effective way to end their suffering. And that of the people in their direct environment.

Many home treatments exist.

Some are more effective than others. Most involve topical application. Or involve choosing apropriate shoes and socks. Few involve a nutritional approach. Zinc supplementation for example.

A less well-known method is using potassium permanganate. This may be useful to you when you have tried other, more common treatments to no avail.

What is potassium permanganate?

Potassium Permanganate (KMn04) (Permanganate of Potash) is a caustic chemical. Because it acts as a strong oxider it’s a potent antiseptic valued for its strong bactericidal and fungicidal properties.

In diluted form it is commonly used to treat ulcers, as disinfectant for the hands and treatment dermatitis and fungal infections of the hands or feet such as athlete’s foot and mouth infections.

Because of its properties it can be very harmful to tissues and therefore, when used as a topical it is safe only in weak dilutions containing no more than 0.04 percent of potassium permanganate.

Here’s how to use potassium permanganate to cure your stinky feet

A potassium permanganate foot soak is a ‘vintage’ treatment. Younger people may not know about this cure but older people are often familiar with it.

Put a tablespoon of potassium permanganate (KMn04) powder or some small crystals in a quarter bucket of warm water.

Use enough potassium permanganate so that the foot bath solution is a dark purple. (see package for more detailed dilution rates)

Soak your feet in this solution for at least 30 minutes. You want it to soak into the dense callous areas of the sole of your foot (planta).

Start with daily soaks (or each other day) for about a week and then proceed with soaks every week for 2 weeks.

Apart from killing the bacteria, potassium permanganate works also by absorbing the sweat from your feet. This also helps in reducing or eliminating foot odor.

Do note that this stuff will stain your toenails and the callous areas chocolate brown. It however should help you get rid of that dreaded Bromhidrosis.

Image credit: Oxidation Systems.

Does Your Child Have Very Sweaty Feat? Here’s What To Do

Uncategorizedtina

Does your infant or toddler have really sweaty feet? My almost 1 year old niece Patricia too, her feet are always clammy. Sometimes they are hot, sometimes cold, but always clammy.

In some kids there’s so much perspiration that socks become soaking wet and their feet leave wet patches on their crib mattress.

It may seem like your little girl or boy’s feet have been under a running tap.

On smooth surfaced floors their sweaty little feet slip from under them like Bambi on ice.

Reasons babies hands and feet sweat so much

Those little feet feeling all cold while being clammy at the same time may cause concern among parents but it actually is pretty normal. Here’s why.

Babies are unable to shiver and are less able to sweat. Only the glands in their hands, feet, neck, and head are active (about 30% of their total body size) so these body parts have to do all the temperature regulating work.

Because of the excess sweat glands in their hands and feet these body parts may feel sweaty.

Concerned parents often overdress their babies. In order to cool down the body the surplus body heat is discharged via perspiration in the hands and feet.

Newborn babies have limited blood circulation focused mainly on supplying blood to their heads and chest and heads when they are asleep. As a result their hands and feet may feel cooler.

It’s pretty common for babies to have sweaty hands and feet and, even more so, sweaty heads.

Although sweaty hands and feet are pretty common in our youngest there is a distinction between normal sweating and excessive perspiration. In case of severe sweating there may be a genetic issue.

Sweating in babies, infants, and toddlers

baby feet being very sweaty is very common

We humans, being warm-blooded, are able to maintain our own body temperature even when the surrounding temperature differs greatly. This is called ‘thermoregulation’.

When we are still very young however, we are less able to regulate our body temperature independently.

From about a year, children are better capable of sweating and shivering and thus better able to regulate temp effectively. That’s why in most infants excessive sweating of the extremities (i.e. head, hands, and feet) evens out when they get older.

When we get older the sweating will normalize in many people. This however depends from person to person. It may be so that your child will be about 2 to 4 years of age when the sweating stops or normalizes.

But some will have to reach adulthood. And then even some people will continue to sweat. This is often the case when it is common in your family to sweat a lot. This condition is called hyperhidrosis.

Increased capability of regulating body temperature leads to less fevers and less excessive sweating of hands and feet.

When should you worry?

Even when your baby’s sweaty feet are not due to a too warm room temperature or being overdressed, sweating in itself isn’t cause to worry.

However, if your child shows other signs that may cause concern such as being underweight, not being energetic or active, it’s probably wise to get him or her examined by a pediatrician.

This to rule out dangerous underlying issues, such as heart disease, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Excessive sweating as a medical condition

sweat glands in the human skin — In hyperhidrosis, the nerves responsible for triggering your sweat glands are overactive causing you to sweat even when it’s not necessary

Excessive sweating could indicate an underlying problem too. Sometimes a genetic issue plays a role.
Primary hyperhidrosis is a condition starting in infancy. According to a prospective study in 338 patients,

In 86% of the patients PH started during infancy, 71.5% were female (mean age 28.8 years). 96.4% of the patients reported palmar hyperhidrosis, often there is family history of PH.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis, although it may sound a bit scary, is just the medical term for excessive sweating.

it is too much sweating that occurs even at not really high temperatures and while you’re not exercising.

It is caused by a problem in the sympathetic nervous system which controls many automatic body functions, including sweating.

The type of hyperhidrosis that occurs primarily in your palms and soles may have a genetic component, because it sometimes clusters in families. Mayo Clinic

Although hyperhidrosis just means sweating a lot, there are some medical conditions relating to this condition.

Not only does it often involve embarrasment and can really affect someone’s psychological, emotional, and social perspective it may cause;

skin irritation,
peeling feet,
a very unpleasant smell (that adds to embarrasment)
and painful skin.

Apart from that it worsens if you’re under stress or nervous. Because you sweat you will get self-conscious and become more nervous. In other words, it can cause a virtuous circle.

Which hyperhidrosis treatment is best?

Since excess sweating of hands, feet, head, and neck of children is normal it is generally not necessary to worry or take action.

When hyperhidrosis runs in the family and your son or daughter grows older you may want to use an anti-perspirant. A well-reviewed, often by doctors recommened product is a deoderant called Certain Dry.

If the problem persists you can have your child see a dermatologist. They can do some tests to rule out underlying conditions that may cause the sweating.

What if deodorants do not work?

If antiperspirants and other measures don’t work, oral medication, botox injections, iontophoresis treatment, and surgery can be used as next or last resorts.

Botox works by blocking the signals the nerves send to the sweat glands. Iontophoresis uses electric currents to disrupt the function of the sweat glands and in surgery some of the nerves are removed.

Image credits: Schematic skin with sweat glands: Wikimedia. Baby feet by Tommy Botello.

Nothing Works To Cure Your Smelly Feet? Maybe Zinc Supplements Will Do The Job

Curestina

Does this sound familiar?

You have tried everything.

You set out to tackle the problem by upgrading your footwear.

You bought shoes that breathe, wore them each other day or even less frequent. Started wearing the best socks you can wear to combat smelly feet. Heck, you even bought a UV shoe santizer.

On top of that you also powdered your shoes. Washed your feet as thoroughly as Cleopatra nourished her skin. Of course not with honey and goat milk, but with the best antibacterial soap you can get.

Yet still. Your feet keep smelling.

Frustration is your part. And your spouse and children’s part too. A whole family suffers from it. You taking off your shoes after a day’s work is appreciated as a fart in an elevator.

You keep wondering why? What’s wrong with your feet? It’s like you are doomed to walk this earth dispersing a foul cheesy whiff.

Well, here’s the thing.

There could be a perfectly reasonable and logical explanation for the fact that your feet still stink.

It may have nothing to do with your efforts. You may not have been plagued by a mysterious ailment .

Because being due diligent in attacking those bacteria, the culprits of the stench still isn’t enough in case..

You have a zinc defiency

Yup, you read that right. Smelly feet may come from a nutritional zinc deficiency. In fact it’s rather common and this can very well be the cause of your foot odor.

Actually, being zinc deprived occurs more fequently than you may think.

In developing countries it is widespread but also in our Western world it is estimated that roughly 10 percent or more people do not have adequate zinc levels. In older people this impaired zinc status is thought to be even up to 40 percent.

The most common reason is that we don’t get enough bioavailable zinc via our food. The past decades soil has been depleted of nutrients and minerals and as a result our vegetables and fruits have become less nutritional. As well as less rich in zinc.

Apart from inadequate dietary intake malabsorption may be a cause.

Zinc is not only known to play an important role in the immune system. It is one of the essential trace elements and, as such, in very small amounts it is necessary for human health.

In other words, zinc is a micronutrient that plays a prominent role in many processes affecting our health and well-being. And, supposedly, also in body and foot odor.

Vegan diet and zinc defiency

Does your vegan diet cause body odor?

Magnesium, vitamin B6, iron, copper and zinc, all crucial nutrients, are present in plant food but they are often blocked by things like oxalic acid and therefore difficult to absorb by the human body.

Particularly zinc. According to various nutrition researchers, the quickest way to develop a zinc deficiency is to just eat a vegan diet because you simply can not obtain adequate zinc from plant foods.

*Oxalate (Oxalic acid) is known to reduce mineral absorption as it can bind to minerals present in the gut.

Signs of zinc deficiency

Visible symptoms of zinc deficiency that occur first are hair loss, diarrhea, eye and skin conditions, loss of appetite, scaly or just dry skin around your face and feet, and stinky feet.

Are there studies linking zinc deficiency to smelly feet?

No. Not as far as I know. I couldn’t find any research on PubMed, Wiley Interscience, Cochrane reviews or other places.

Also Mayo Clinic does not list this ailment on their Evidence for Zinc supplementation page.

The only thing I found is this quote by Dr. Lobe in The Doctors Book of Home Remedies: Quick Fixes, Clever Techniques, and Uncommon Cures to Get You Feeling Better Fast.

“Foot odor is one of many symptoms of zinc deficiency”

In the section Kitchen Cures, chapter Foot Odor, he mentions zinc as an effective home remedy.

Dr. Thom Lobe, the founder and medical director of Beneveda Medical Group in Beverly Hills, California, a practitioner of alternative medicine with a strong interest in complementary and alternative approaches also mentions vodka and Jell-O as cures that actually work.

So why do you recommend taking zinc supplements?

Because it has helped numerous people. And on top of that, if you’ve tried everything, you are probably willing to try one more remedy.

Especially since it’s a relatively easy method that doesn’t cost you much time or money. Just make sure not to overdo it with the zinc intake. More in a bit.

“Take 1 or 2 zinc tablets per day during a few weeks. My whole family was thankful I did. And I am too. It has saved me lots of embarrasment as well as money buying new socks and shoes.”

There’s also the old rhyme, “zinc for stink” and while there’s no real scientific evidence for this claim it is thought that zinc deficiency is of influence. How exactly remains to be seen.

According to some, a weakened immune system leads to excessive growth of bacteria. Others think tissue deterioration as a result of the systemic imbalance of a lack of zinc may be the cause.

Moreover, it is known that kidney disorders or liver problems, resulting in wastes not being properly be eliminated from the body, can also bring about foot odor.

Toxic build-up causes you sweat to smell worse than normal regardless of hygiene or other measures taken.

Anyway, there is lots of anecdotal evidence that suggests taking zinc supplements or eating zinc-rich foods can cure smelly feet in some people when other remedies were unsuccessful.

How much zinc should you take?

It is commonly recommended to take 50 mg of zinc for a few weeks in order to stop your feet from smelling.

Medical professionals urge that taking over 50 milligrams is excessive.

Excess zinc supplementation can interfere with iron and copper absorption.
It can also reduce magnesium and calcium absorption.

Since zinc supplementation interferes with copper absorption many people take 2mg copper in addition. This would ensure a more natural adequate intake (AI).

The University of Maryland Medical Center also suggests taking 2 milligrams of copper along with zinc.

Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for Zinc

male adults 11 mg
female adults 8 mg

The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) however is 40 mg/day for adults. The UL is the maximum daily intake unlikely to cause adverse health effects.

Taking zinc supplements on a routine basis is not recommended.

It is commonly mentioned that, before taking a zinc supplement, you should consult with your physician to help determine your appropriate dosage. Which you should.

However, in the real world it is a fact that, sadly, most of your doctors know absolutely nothing about nutritional supplementation and their biological mechanism of action. Even worse, they often think there are no health benefits to your body.

So if possible, find a medical professional, dietitian or naturopathic physician that can provide you with personal advice.

Which foods are highest in zinc?

Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food. Eating oysters every day may not be practical though. Or tasty for that matter.

Also meat, eggs, dairy, whole grains, legumes, nuts, soy products, and some fortified cereal products.

However, phytates (antioxidant compounds) in cereals, wholegrain bread, legumes and some other foods inhibit zinc absorption. In other words, your body is less able to absorb zinc from many of these plant-based foods.

The bioavailability of zinc from grains and plant foods is lower than that from animal foods, although many grain- and plant-based foods are still good sources of zinc.

Source: Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board.

Which zinc supplements should you get?

Elemental zinc supplements come in various forms.

available are zinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, zinc picolinate, and zinc acetate supplements.
Zinc supplements must be used with caution because of the dangers of zinc excess and zinc toxicity.

Zinc gluconate is commonly used for treating colds (e.g. in lozenges). Some people complain that zinc gluconate and sulphate upsets their stomach or makes them ill.

Studies show that zinc picolinate is better absorbed than zinc gluconate. That’s why some medical professionals recommend zinc picolinic acid complex supplements.

For optimal absorbtion do not take zinc tablets with foods that hinder absorption like protein, bran, coffee, phytates, calcium or phosphorus.

Did you use zinc supplements for your stinky feet?

Did it work for you? No more feet that reek like a garbage bin on a hot summers day in Bangkok?

Help others out by sharing your experiences below.

Cedar Wood Shoe Trees Help Keep Your Shoes Fresh

Uncategorizedtina

You may know them, those somewhat odd looking devices that look like wooden shoe molds.

Shoe trees as they are called, are used to keep shoes from shrinking, stop them from developing creases, and losing their overall shape.

Cedar wood shoe trees put an added advantage to the mix. This is due to the fact that cedar wood has some pretty convincing benefits when it comes to keeping your shoes free from sweat and odor causing bacteria.

PubMed reports indicate that Alaska cedar wood has outstanding antimicrobial activity that kills anaerobic bacteria and yeast. No wonder shoe trees made from cedar wood and cedar insoles are such popular anti-foot odor products.

In a test different types of wood species were tested for their antimicrobial activity against microbes commonly causing foot diseases and other infections in animals. Among the extracts of these woods, Alaska cedar wood proved most potent.

The cedar tree, that lives more than 1,000 years and resists insect damage was already valued by the ancient Egyptians. They used cedar as a preservative in cosmetics, as incense, and for embalming.

So in addition to giving your shoes the time to air out, using a cedar wood shoe tree will offer you a helping hand in combating smelly shoes.

It helps absorb moisture from the linings of your shoes,
kills off the microbes known to cause foot problems,
and adds a pleasant cedar scent to your shoes too.

Beats the aroma of blue cheese whirling up from your sneakers don’t you think?

A cedar wood shoe tree that offers great odor killing functionality for an acceptable price is Woodlore men’s shoe tree. It has a sturdy design, comes in various sizes, is adjustable, and is one of the most popular shoe trees available.

Smelly Feet Cures Tip: do not share your cedar shoe tree with other people. A study shows that bacteria and bacterial spores are transmitted when different shoe wearers make use of the same shoe tree.

This may lead to transmission of microbial pathogens from shoe to shoe. Thus possibly increasing sweaty and smelly feet or at least diminishing the beneficial effects of using a cedar shoe tree.

Sole Socks, Now You Can Go Sockless Without Getting Stinky Feet

Footwearsockless, sole sockstina

going sockless may look appealing but has its downsides

Do you love wearing shoes on a “mankle” style? Perhaps, one of your persistent problems is having smelly feet.

Mankle is a new or urban term used to describe the idea of wearing shoes without socks.

The sockless habit however is not so new. Many men pick up the practice from their dads. And they from their granddads. Or you may have been inspired by friends, movie stars, or magazines.

It’s fashionable and certainly comfortable. But not wearing socks can, and in many cases, will eventually result in smelly feet.

Trend causes increase in smelly feet

Pharmacies have signaled an 11% increase in treatments for smelly and sweaty feet.

Especially a lot of male (the trend is especially popular among men) customers have been asking them about how to stop their bare feet in brogues, boat shoes, and loafers from smelling.

This confirms the idea that going sockless is the culprit of the rise of smelly feet.

The mankle practice doesn’t directly cause foot odor. But you can bet on it that after a while you will regret not having taken precautions. In some cases the foul odor is so severe, a biohazard seems peanuts in comparison.

The reason going sockless may cause foul odor

The feet produce sweat due to heat, extreme activity, or lack of air circulation inside the shoes.

Without the absorbing capacity of socks, sweat is instead absorbed by the soles and inner linings of shoes.

This will eventually promote the proliferation of bacteria and fungus that causes bad odor.

And because it’s a bacterial proliferation which can linger on your feet, the odor can be difficult to eliminate.

How to pull off the ‘no socks look’? (while keeping your feet from reeking)

There are several home remedies which could help you cure or manage smelly feet. These include;

regularly cleaning and disinfecting your feet,
more frequent washing and cleaning of your shoes,
and the use of foot powders that deodorizes and maintains dryness of your feet.

But isn’t it better to prevent smelly feet than curing it?

It sure is.

How to prevent your feet from stinking while wearing no socks at all

You can of course wear those super thin ankle socks that don’t go above the shoe line. They are also known as no show socks.

But if you have ever worn them you will know they are pretty uncomfortable, too tight, and are prone to slipping off during the day.

If you really don’t like wearing socks, consider using Sole Socks instead.

Sole Socks are custom insoles that absorbs moisture and odor from the feet.

The Sole Socks Solution

the simple sock alternative

Sole socks are specially designed insoles which can substitute the functions of ordinary socks.

They were designed to absorb sweat, prevent feet odor, and keep them more comfortable through improved air circulation.

How do Sole Socks work?

The secret of preventing feet odor lies on the insoles’ built and design. The top layer is the soft and absorbent part made out of cotton and terry cloth, a fabric proven to help absorb moisture and odor.

The bottom part is made out of silicone rubber which features grooves for better grip and stability when the insoles are used.

And together with the grooves, there are also holes which promote breathability and air circulation.

Watch this short video to learn about the benefits of wearing Sole Socks.

Here are some of the beneficial features of Sole Socks:

These insoles prevent odor build-up. Aside from absorbing moisture from sweat, these insoles are also capable of eliminating odor; hence, you could always wear the mankle style any time you want.

Enhanced comfort. Sole socks add more comfort by ensuring cool and dry feet, better cushioning effect, and the surface is also finer and softer than ordinary insoles.

Ease in cleaning. With constant washing and cleaning, the cotton and rubber parts of common insoles usually disintegrate. Sole socks on the other hand are tightly stitched to stay in tacked. They are not sensitive to the manner of cleaning. They can be tossed in the washer together with your other clothes whenever you’re doing the laundry.

Convenience of use. These insoles are very convenient to use. When you need to bring them on a trip, you can just insert them in your extra pair of shoes. This is contrary to socks which you need to prepare and pack along with your clothes.

Better feet health. Another benefit of eliminating moisture and odor when wearing shoes is the prevention of feet diseases like altheles feet and irritation.

Various sizes. Soles socks may not only be used by teens and adults, the makers of these sock replacements are also producing smaller sizes for children. They have also adapted to the US, Europe, UK, and Asian sizes.

For more info check out the recent Sole Socks Kickstarter funding campaign which has been an overwhelming succces.

Or order your Sole Socks at the official website. A pair will set you back $12 or $4,50 for toddlers and children.