Millions of people suffer from foot odor, ranging from mild to "clear the room" in severity. Foot odor, whose medical term is "bromhidrosis", can usually be traced to a combination of perspiration and bacteria. Moist and warm feet, socks, dead skin and shoes provide the perfect place for the foot odor bacteria to breed and multiply. If you have foot odor, don't worry - there are plenty of natural habits and remedies which can make sure you no longer have to stand for foot odor.
Here are some healthy habits and remedies for eliminating foot odor:
Healthy Habits
*Wash your feet frequently and use a pumice stone regularly to remove dead skin.
*Shoes made with natural materials such as leather breathe better than man-made materials, allowing heat to escape.
*Wear socks that let your feet breathe. If possible, change your socks at least once each day and don't wear the same pair two days in a row.
*Choose open shoes such as sandals which allow air onto the feet, help evaporate sweat and slow the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Avoid shoes that are lined with solid rubber or synthetic materials.
*Some shoes, such as sneakers, can be washed in the washing machine. Let them air-dry rather than putting them in the dryer.
*Air out your shoes in between wearing them. If you can, alternate shoes on a daily basis. Loosen the laces and pull up the tongue on shoes you're not wearing; let them dry out outdoors.
*Avoid strong-flavored foods such as garlic, onions, scallions, and peppers because the substances that give them powerful flavors and aromas can pass through the bloodstream and eventually concentrate in your sweat.
*Stress and anxiety increase production of sweat, giving odor-causing bacteria even more to feed on.
