Why Do Feet Smell Like Vinegar?

June 1, 2021

The foot contains some 250,000 sweat glands. That’s a lot of glands, and a lot of sweat. No wonder foot odour can be such a persistent and prevalent problem with our feet. One common symptom may be that your feet smell like vinegar.

Do you ever wonder if your foot odour is unique to you, and if no one else deals with it? In fact, much of the population deals with Foot Odour in some capacity at some point in their life.

Foot Odour has a pungent smell and is often a sign of fungal or bacterial overgrowth. Foot odour is directly correlated with sweat. More sweat = more bacteria. More bacteria = more foot odour. It can be as simple as that. There may however be other underlying causes.

At Toronto’s Feet First Clinic, we tackle the topics we know are prevalent, but that you may be afraid to talk about. Have no fear. We’re equipped to handle all foot conditions so you can rest easy.

For a bit of DIY at home, below you’ll find an overview of foot odour, its causes, and what you can do to eliminate those stinky scents.

What does it mean when feet smell like vinegar?

Foot odour derives from sweat. The more your feet sweat, the smellier they are. It’s not the sweat that smells though: It’s the byproduct of the bacteria consuming your sweat. The more sweat there is, the more there is for bacteria to thrive on.

According to Healthline.com, “if your feet smell like vinegar, it’s most likely the result of propionibacterium breaking down your sweat and producing acid, which is similar to acetic acid (vinegar).”

Foot odour may also change. This change is usually attributed to one or several of the following factors:

Diet
Natural hormone cycles
General lifestyle

Some people may have stronger foot odour than others due to how much or how often they sweat. Excessive sweat is in and of itself a condition known as hyperhidrosis (excessive foot sweat is known as plantar hyperhidrosis). Sweat is considered “excessive” when the source is neither related to heat or exercise.

Does white vinegar kill foot odor?

Ironically, vinegar can kill the vinegar-smelling foot odour. White vinegar, since it’s an antimicrobial, can help kill the bacteria or fungi that contributes to your foot odour. You can do this by soaking your feet for 10-20 minutes in a vinegar bath: Simply add 1-2 cups of apple cider vinegar to warm water, and clean your feet before and after soaking with regular soap.

Why do toenails smell like cheese?

Smelly feet is a relatively generic symptom. The smell can come from anywhere. A common source is from your toenail(s).

Your toenails might give off a cheesy smell. Wait, what? That’s right. According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, one type of bacteria, called brevibacterium, lives between the toes. It thrives in a damp, salty environment, and produces the cheese-like smell of feet. That same bacteria is used in the cheese creation process for Muenster, Entrammes, and Limburger cheeses. Yes, it’s true.

The bacteria can find its way into your toenails through sweat. Wearing shoes for lengthy stretches creates a dark, damp climate in which bacteria can thrive. Moisture buildup also softens the skin around your toenails, which makes it easier for bacteria to penetrate the toenail.

How do you get rid of sour smelling feet?

Now that we know why our feet smell, it’s time to get rid of the smell once and for all. There are a number of at-home preventative methods to eliminate foot odour. These odour-killing methods include:

Wash your feet daily with an antibacterial soap.
Soak your feet for 10–20 minutes in a large bowl or tub of warm water with a half cup of Epsom salt dissolved in it. Epsom salt helps eliminate bacteria by removing moisture from your skin.
Dry your feet after showering, bathing, swimming, or soaking. Consider wearing cotton socks and shoes made of natural materials that allow the moisture to evaporate. Consider changing your socks during the day.
Powder a small amount of cornstarch in your shoes to help keep your feet dry.
Over-the-counter (OTC) foot antiperspirant.
Swap your shoes regularly, and avoid wearing your footwear on back-to-back days to allow for proper drying in between use.
Spray the inside of your shoes with a disinfectant that contains a sanitizing ingredient, such as ethanol. If your shoes have removable insoles, take them out, spray them lightly, and then let them dry outside your shoe for 24 hours.
Use moisture-wicking socks. You want moisture and sweat away from your feet to help prevent and get rid of smelly feet. Investing in the proper socks can help your feet dry, and odour-free.

If foot odour persists, speak with your doctor about prescription medication for your feet.

While these methods will help with the smell and preventing bacteria buildup and fungal infections, they won’t eliminate an existing fungal infection – for that, you will need treatment from a foot specialist or doctor. Early intervention is key to effectively treating foot fungus, so if you suspect a fungal infection, it is best to get it looked at as soon as possible. Fortunately, the skilled chiropodists at our Toronto foot clinic can effectively treat various kinds of foot and toenail fungal infections.

Is smelly feet a sign of diabetes?

Smelly feet is one (of many) signs of diabetes. But foot odour doesn’t just affect those with diabetes – anyone can have it. However, if the odour persists after following the above measures and preventative methods, you may want to take the condition more seriously. Also, if you have diabetes, common foot issues – like fungal infections – can lead to serious complications: We recommend routine foot assessments for diabetic patients for that reason, and to book an appointment with a foot specialist immediately if you notice anything out of the ordinary.

Turn those smells upside down at Feet First Clinic

Eliminate foot odour. Fast. We have all your solutions under one roof. Call or Book Today and we’ll have you in ASAP! Open 6 days a week, we’ll be happy to help inform you and solve all your concerns any day at your convenience.

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Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

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April 11, 2024

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

You are what you eat! This statement could not be more true, as the foods we consume help our bodies function at their best. The connection between nutrition and foot health isn’t widely known or obvious, but a healthy diet can work wonders for bone and joint health in the lower extremities. Eating the right foods for strong feet may also help you avoid painful foot conditions when combined with other foot care practices. Keep reading to discover nutrition and foot health secrets! How Good Nutrition Benefits Foot Health Healthy eating can lead to stronger feet by helping prevent excess inflammation. Inflammation can be protective and healing, but on the flip side, too much can lead to the following: Tissue damage Joint degradation (arthritis) Injuries and mobility issues Reduced bone density Moreover, a healthy diet supports proper blood circulation, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the feet. Poor blood circulation can lead to cramping in the lower extremities, fatigue, varicose veins, and even ulcers, which are very dangerous for diabetics. Lastly, when we fuel our bodies with whole foods and don’t overeat (it’s okay to indulge on occasion!), we can maintain a healthy weight. Living your life at a healthy weight poses many benefits for your feet, including: Enhanced mobility and flexibility Decreased strain on the foot (your feet are carrying less weight, which is extra important when you have flat feet) Improved circulation to the feet Less edema and water/salt retention The Best Healthy Diet for your Feet Now let’s get to the fun part — exploring all of the yummy and nutrient-rich foods you should eat for strong feet! Check below for a list of the top choices to help your feet feel great. Keep in mind you can eat many more foods than these; we just think these options stand out as foot health power foods! Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and promote joint health. Leafy greens: High in vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, which are essential for bone health. Berries: Packed with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Nuts and seeds: Good sources of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that support overall foot health. Greek yogurt: Contains calcium and probiotics, beneficial for bone density. Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate foot pain and swelling. Avocados: Provides healthy fats and potassium, essential for maintaining proper muscle function and reducing cramping. Beans and legumes: High in fiber, protein, and various nutrients that support overall health and can help prevent foot-related complications like diabetes. To learn more about great foods for foot health, read here. In terms of what to avoid or eat in moderation, foods that cause inflammation are the main culprits. These include: Red and processed meats Baked goods and pasta made with refined carbohydrates Deep fried foods High-sugar foods like candy and soda Foods with trans fat (certain types of butter, chips, etc)

March 21, 2024

The Importance of Foot Hygiene: Tips and Tricks

Foot hygiene and solid foot care tips are your secret weapons for happy and healthy feet! Everyone should practice a clean and healthy foot routine, but those with foot conditions such as diabetes or chronic fungal infections should be extra vigilant. Today we’ll talk about the best foot cleaning practices and how to implement them into your daily foot care routine. Foot Health Essentials: How to Keep Your Feet Clean and Protected Foot hygiene is pretty straightforward stuff! But you may make some minor missteps along the way. Take a look below at the best ways to wash, dry and moisturize your feet. Washing Your Feet Wash your feet daily with natural, gentle soaps in warm water. Hot water can negatively impact your blood circulation by increasing the size of the blood vessels, so be careful with temperatures. Moisturizing Your Feet Use lotion on the bottom and top of your feet. This can help you prevent calluses, corns, cracked heels, and more. Natural, fragrance-free and medicinal lotions are your best bet (try Gehwol at Feet First Clinic!). If you have diabetes, be extra careful to avoid putting lotion in between your toes; it could cause an infection depending on the lotion. Fungal infections also favour wet toes and tend to appear there. Keeping Your Feet Dry Thoroughly dry your feet after washing them. If you get lazy and keep them damp, you are again more likely to attract contagious fungal infections (they love moist environments!). Invest in products that help manage foot dampness and repel excess moisture. These include moisture-wicking socks (also remember to change your sock frequently!), waterproof shoes and boots, running shoes with perforated holes in the uppers, and various foot deodorant products (creams, powders, sprays). These products are also great for preventing foot odour. Toenail Care and Foot Hygiene Keeping your nails in top shape is an important element of foot hygiene. Follow these nail care tips to protect your nails and keep them clean and strong. Cut your nails straight across with high-quality nail clippers. Don’t try to shape them during this stage! Avoid cutting your nails too close to the skin; this will cause ingrown toenails. Gently use a nail file for subtle shaping. Don’t try to cut your own cuticles if you’re prone to infections. They protect the nails and getting rid of them improperly may welcome fungi. Schedule a medical pedicure for professional care and a cleaning of hard-to-reach areas.

March 18, 2024

Tips for Healthy Toenails: Prevention and Care

Toenail care is your shield from future foot issues. Foot conditions affecting the toenails can lead to infections, fungus, brittle and damaged nails, pain, bleeding and more. But you have the power to prevent these complications! By investing in proper footwear, learning to trim your nails properly, and more, you can take the reins on your toenail health. Let's talk toenails! Preventing Fungal Infections and Other Toenail Conditions Practice Proper Toenail Trimming It would be nice to have a professional always trim our nails for us, but sometimes we do have to do toenail care ourselves. To prevent issues or conditions, trim your nails following these two simple steps: Use nail clippers to trim straight across (very important), avoiding curved edges. Smooth edges with a nail file if needed. Keep Your Feet Clean and Protected Fungal toenails love when you forget to care for your feet. Make sure you always thoroughly clean and dry your feet before wearing socks and shoes. To go the extra mile and protect from skin issues, moisturize, exfoliate and use a foot file. Avoid areas where contagious fungal viruses breed and are passed along. These include public pool grounds, public showers, shared locker rooms, and more. If you frequent places like this, always wear shoes. Pedicure safety and hygiene are also very important when it comes to prevention. Schedule medical pedicure appointments with your chiropodist instead of a cosmetic pedicure to avoid contracting a contagious fungal infection and for a more health-focused experience. Learn more about the difference between a cosmetic and medical pedicure. Make Healthy Footwear Choices The link connecting toenail issues and footwear may seem unclear, but picture it this way: When our shoes are too tight it often means there is not enough room for the toes to spread out naturally. This can wreak havoc on your nails and you also risk annoying ingrown toenails or a cracked toenail. Always buy shoes with enough room in the toe box! Take it to the next level by looking for running shoes with mesh uppers that allow air to flow inside the shoe. This is a bonus way of keeping your toes fresh and protecting against fungal infections. Check out this handy shoe shopping checklist for even more help! Toenail Care for Pre-existing Conditions Anti-fungal Treatments for Toenails You won’t be able to treat a current fungal infection without using antifungal products or visiting a chiropodist. Products include sprays, ointments and sometimes pills. At times, over-the-counter versions like ClearNails Pro + (available at Feet First Clinic) are enough, but other times, you’ll need a prescription for a persistent infection. Chiropodists can also perform nail debridement, which involves removing the infected part of the nail and thinning the outer layers of the toenail. This allows prescription-strength topical antifungal medication to penetrate the toenail and reach the fungus. Treating Cracked Toenails Cracked toenails are more of a nuisance than a serious problem. But messing with your toenails in any way can still cause bleeding and pain. You may be more susceptible to cracks if your nails are weak and brittle. If you’re looking for some ways to speed up nail growth, but also to strengthen your nails as they are, try these toenail growth tips: As we've mentioned, trim nails straight across and avoid trimming too close to the skin Again, wear well-fitting shoes. Tight shoes can disrupt healthy toenail growth. Protect toenails during physical activities. Avoid excessive use of nail polish. While polish itself doesn’t slow growth, some types can cause toenail dehydration, making your nails more likely to crack. Eat a balanced diet for nail health. Treating Ingrown Toenails OnyFix is a useful and modern way of treating ingrown toenails. It involves the application of a specialized corrective strip to the affected nail. Nail avulsions can also be a good idea for chronic, severe ingrown nails, and chiropodists may tackle infections using certain draining methods. Treating Toenail Discolouration Discoloured toenails are tricky because the colours can vary wildly. Discolouration caused by a fungal infection (green or yellow) may be treated using similar methods as fungal toenails. But if your discolouration is black, blue, purple, or red, this is probably linked to a mild blunt-force trauma injury (like dropping something on your toe). It’s best to schedule a nail care appointment to determine the culprit!

March 7, 2024

The Link Between Foot Health and Overall Wellness

Foot health directly correlates with our overall wellness. Seniors, in particular, can learn a lot about their general health when they start to understand the biomechanics of healthy feet. How feet look, how they feel, and how they function can be a sign of a serious health issue. This is also true in reverse — neglecting foot health can lead to conditions and other problems. Let’s take a look at how our feet act as a mirror to our holistic health. Here are the two main topics we'll break down today: How our feet can signify poor health How neglecting foot health affects overall wellness How Our Feet Can Signify Poor Health Your feet will often try to warn you that you need to visit your family doctor or foot specialist. Some of these warning signs include: Cold feet Feet that are cold to the touch and don’t seem to warm up can be a sign of a blood circulation or heart issue. Icy cold feet can also be a sign of peripheral artery disease, which is the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels in the lower extremities, or a thyroid condition. Sores and wounds that don’t heal Diabetes is arguably the medical condition most notorious for damaging our feet. Elevated blood sugar levels can make our feet more susceptible to wounds. Even the tiniest blister, cut, or callus that doesn’t bother the average person can become a major concern. Wounds that do not heal can become infected and lead to devastating problems like gangrene and amputation. Numbness and tingling Bizarre foot sensations are also often a tell-tale sign of diabetes. They warn us that diabetes has progressed to the point of neuropathy (when the disease causes nerve damage). Foot swelling (edema) Injuries, medications, heart and kidney problems, and more can all cause fluid to accumulate in the tissues. Edema can also be a sign that you need to eat less salty foods. Foot pain From plantar fasciitis to Morton’s neuroma, painful feet can be a sign of many conditions, and it’s tough to really narrow down the cause. Sometimes it may be from simply ignoring foot care for years (wearing unsupportive shoes, not using inserts or orthotics, etc), but sometimes it may be a sign of age-related joint deterioration, like osteoarthritis, or weight gain. Strange colouring Toes that turn red, white or blue may be a sign of Raynaud’s disease (this can also make your feet very cold). This condition often causes blood vessel “spasms” due to their narrowing, and may be connected to stress and cold weather. How Poor Foot Health Affects Overall Wellness Taking care of your feet plays an imperative role in an overall healthy lifestyle. Everyone should practice foot care, but foot health tips for seniors are extra important as we age. Outside of foot pain and the common foot conditions we all know about, here are some other ways poor foot health can affect you: Back, knee and hip pain Foot issues may contribute to pain and discomfort in the back, knees, and hips due to altered gait and poor posture. This happens when you adopt unusual walking patterns to make up for the fact that your normal stride is painful. Remember, the musculoskeletal system is all connected! Heightened injury risk Weaker feet = more likely to fall and do some serious damage. Ignoring things like strengthening exercises and wearing proper footwear can lead to vulnerable feet. Infections Don’t ignore skin and toenail issues and assume they will magically go away! We already touched on how important this is for diabetes patients, but brushing off problems like fungal conditions can lead to painful infections that may even harm your immune system. This is true for everybody.

February 8, 2024

Senior Foot Care: Staying Active and Pain-Free

As the golden years unfold, maintaining an active and pain-free lifestyle should be a priority for seniors. One often overlooked aspect of overall well-being is foot health. Our feet, the unsung heroes of a lifetime of steps, require special attention to ensure comfort and mobility. This article delves into practical foot care tips for seniors, empowering you to stride into each day pain-free and with a zest for life. Choose supportive footwear The foundation of pain-free feet lies in the shoes we wear. Opt for supportive footwear with cushioning, proper arch support, and a comfortable fit. Also consider wearing supportive footwear indoors to provide support and protect against slips and falls on slippery surfaces. Read our complete guide to senior foot care in this blog post. Regular foot inspections Make it a habit to inspect your feet regularly. Look for any changes in colour, swelling, or unusual growth. Recognizing early signs of issues can prevent more significant problems, ensuring your feet remain a source of strength - not pain. Gentle foot exercises Keep those joints and muscles limber with gentle foot exercises. To do this, add lower leg exercises to your daily routine to maintain and improve mobility. Exercises like ankle circles, toe flexes, and heel lifts can improve flexibility and strength, promoting pain-free movement. Moisturize and combat dry skin Seniors often contend with drier skin, leading to cracks and discomfort. Combat this by moisturizing your feet regularly, paying particular attention to the heels and soles; Well-hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to issues. You may also consider regular foot care appointments with a chiropodist, who specialize in senior foot care. Elevate your feet to reduce swelling After a day of activity, give your feet a break. Elevate them when resting to reduce swelling and promote healthy blood circulation. This simple practice can significantly affect how your feet feel after a busy day. Address foot pain promptly Don't ignore foot pain or discomfort. Consult with a chiropodist or healthcare professional to address any issues promptly. Early addressing can help combat the development of chronic conditions and ensure that your feet remain pain-free. Consider an annual foot assessment for a comprehensive check-up on the health of your feet. Studies show that physical examination of the feet as part of the routine assessment of older adults is imperative to detect foot problems. A foot assessment includes: Circulation and blood flow to your feet Neurological status Changes or concerns with the skin and toenails Your foot type (i.e., flat feet, normal arches or high arches) Biomechanical abnormalities (i.e. limited or excessive range of motion in joints, areas of pain, overpronation, etc.) Low-impact exercises for overall health Staying active is vital to a vibrant lifestyle. Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or tai chi to promote cardiovascular health without putting excessive strain on your feet and joints. Custom orthopedic inserts Enhance comfort and support by considering custom orthopedic inserts for your shoes. These inserts provide additional cushioning and support for your arches, reducing the risk of foot-related discomfort. Prioritize circulation Good circulation - the rate at which your blood flows to and from various body parts - is vital for overall foot health. Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing, and consider simple exercises to promote blood circulation. Compression stockings can also benefit you by improving your blood circulation. Your feet will thank you for the improved oxygen and nutrient supply. Maintain a holistic approach to health Remember that foot health is interconnected with your overall well-being. Maintain a balanced diet, manage your weight, and stay hydrated. A healthy lifestyle reflects positively on your feet and contributes to your ability to stay active.

January 18, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Diabetic Footwear: Comfort Meets Medical Necessity

Diabetes and foot health will always have a close connection. People with diabetes need to pay attention to every step, every minor cut, and every moment of discomfort very closely. That’s why investing in diabetic footwear that gives you peace of mind is an essential piece of the diabetic foot care puzzle. Let’s investigate what your shoes should do for you, and give you some tips on choosing diabetic footwear. What Should Diabetic Footwear Do? Foot care for people with diabetes involves choosing the perfect pair of shoes for daily life. Comfortable diabetic shoes should do the following: Protect the pressure points on the feet and prevent minor cuts, scrapes, corns, blisters or calluses as much as possible. Pople with diabetes are especially vulnerable to dry feet and the buildup of calluses. These seemingly innocent wounds can become serious foot ulcers when diabetic neuropathy(nerve damage) is present. Help pepole with diabetes avoid injury. Decreased sensation from neuropathy adds an extra layer of risk to foot injuries, and can lead to complications, infections and even amputation. Preserve and boost blood circulation. Proper blood flow supplies damaged nerves with more oxygen and nutrients. In a nutshell, protective shoes for diabetes should set you up for a healthier future. Diabetic foot ulcer stages and complications Best Footwear for Diabetics Medical shoes and orthopedic shoes for diabetes come with specific features that you should prioritize while shoe shopping. Extra Depth and Removable Insoles These features accommodate orthotic inserts, which people with diabetes may use to reduce pressure on sensitive areas. Depth also helps accommodate the swelling you may experience due to poor circulation, neuropathy, and fluid retention. Shock-Absorption and Cushioning While these features are important for everyone, they are especially important for people with diabetes to prevent the dangerous injuries that post such a risk. Cushioning can also prevent friction and help you avoid skin problems (blisters, cuts, etc). Adjustable Closures and Stretchable Uppers These ensure a snug fit and can help you adapt to foot size fluctuations caused by swelling. Wide Toe Box and Extra Width Options The wide toe box prevents toe friction, crowding, rubbing and the resultant skin problems. Extra width options help with swelling and gives you a better fit. Seamless Protective Interior The interior seams in footwear can cause excessive friction and rubbing for people with diabetes. That's why diabetic footwear is constructed with as few seams as possible in order to minimize potential friction-related concerns like calluses and blisters. Extra soft and breathable interiors provide additional wound protection. Extra deep shoe from Anodyne (with adjustable straps)

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Why Do Feet Smell Like Vinegar?

What does it mean when feet smell like vinegar?

Does white vinegar kill foot odor?

Why do toenails smell like cheese?

How do you get rid of sour smelling feet?

Is smelly feet a sign of diabetes?

Turn those smells upside down at Feet First Clinic

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

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Related Posts

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

The Importance of Foot Hygiene: Tips and Tricks

Tips for Healthy Toenails: Prevention and Care

The Link Between Foot Health and Overall Wellness

Senior Foot Care: Staying Active and Pain-Free

The Ultimate Guide to Diabetic Footwear: Comfort Meets Medical Necessity

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