Nail fungal infections that occur both on the toenails and fingernails are also called onychomycosis or tinea of the nails. This causes the nails to have black, yellow, or white discoloration. Around 10 percent of the population tends to suffer from nail fungal infections. This percentage goes up to 50 percent among those who are 70 years old. Mild toenail fungal infections don’t often cause pain or discomfort.
What are the causes of this infection?
Nail fungal infections are commonly brought by dermatophytes which is a type of fungus. Fungal infections may also be caused by other types of fungi like yeasts. The infection is called tinea unguium when it is caused by dermatophytes.
What are the signs of this infection?
Fungal nail infections may occur in various ways. This depends on the cause and spread of the infection. Mild ones may cause the nail to discolor. The hallmarks of a nail fungal infection are crumbly nails and the occurrence of yellow spikes on the nail’s surface. Toenails are more susceptible to nail fungal infections than fingernails. This is because of slower growth, reduced blood supply, and the length of time the toes are in a dark and moist environment. Nail fungal infections may affect one nail or in extreme cases all the nails.
Other symptoms include the nails lifting off the nail bed, nails becoming thicker and crumbly, and flaking or pitting on the nail surface.
How are the infections treated?
There are oral and topical nail fungal treatments available. These vary depending on the microorganism that caused the infection and the level of severity. Topical ones are intended for mild infections. These include a nail lacquer that has to be applied to affected nails for a couple of weeks to months. A podiatrist will help you choose the right nail fungus treatment.
2All about the Plantain Fufu
Plantain fufu is a classic meal that is founded on plantain, an unripe green plant. Before this unripe plant is used, it has to be processed into a paste. This is commonly known as “swallow” in Africa because of the firmness of its texture. Plantain amala or plantain fufu is one of the healthiest staple meals in Nigeria. This is made up of unripe plantains, known to be beneficial because of their low sugar content. Due to its nutritional value, plantain fufu is highly recommended by diabetologists for diabetic patients. This may also be served with your favorite traditional soup.
Nutritional Value
Plantain fufu is high in carbohydrates, but it is also loaded with fiber. There are 350 calories in one cup of plantain fufu. Moreover, it is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and B-6 as well as the minerals potassium and magnesium.
