They can be alluring or they may smell, they can set your body straight or throw it out of whack. Whether you love them or hate them, feet are an important, interesting and informative part of the body.
Containing 26 bones, 33 joints, over 100 tendons, muscles and ligaments, and a whopping 250,000 sweat glands, it’s no wonder our feet are so strong and that the tips of our toes can hold our entire body weight. In fact, during an average day of walking the total force put on your feet can total hundreds of tons!
More than that, the toes and feet hold clues to our overall health and well-being. For example, conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in your feet. The toenails can signal whether you are anemic with spoon-shaped indentations, or if you have psoriasis by developing pits in the nail surface. And hairless toes (although pretty) can signal poor blood circulation.
However, with such a big responsibility and weight to carry, the feet need some TLC otherwise foot problems can arise. These can range from dead/dry skin to corns, calluses and bunions, ingrown toenails, Athlete’s foot, planter warts, and ringworm.
When it comes to proper foot care, the most important thing you can do is wear the correct sized shoe. This may sound simple, but a 2011 report published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery found that about 35 percent of people underestimate their shoe size by at least half a size. So always try shoes on before purchasing them, and always stand up while trying them on. This is because the foot gets two sizes longer when standing.
It is also a good idea to treat your feet by exfoliating, moisturizing and providing regular maintenance to them.
Nature’s Aid and Exfoliating
Exfoliation is important to get rid of the dry, dead skin that builds up on the heels and soles of your feet and around the toes. And you can make your own rub with Nature’s Aid. Simply blend 1 part skin gel into 3 part organic coconut oil and 2 parts coarse brown sugar to create a great exfoliator. Massage this into your feet, heels, ankles and around the toes, and rinse off with warm water. Depending on the state of your feet exfoliate them anywhere from a couple of times a week to a couple of times a month.
Nature’s Aid and Extra Moisture
Always follow an exfoliation treatment with a moisturizer to rehydrate the skin. Whether you have just exfoliated or just need extra hydration for those heels and toes, try an application of one part olive or argan oil to three parts skin gel. Generously rub this mixture into your feet, cover with warm socks, and let the moisture seep in.
Nature’s Aid and Maintenance
Every night before bed apply Nature’s Aid skin gel to the feet and ankles. The ingredients in our gel will work throughout the night to increase circulation, remove dead/dry skin, and encourage new cell growth. This can help reduce the likelihood of developing calluses or corns, will repair and strengthen the skin of your feet, and keep them looking smooth and beautiful.
Nature’s Aid and Foot Infections
If you develop Athlete’s foot, ring worm or a nail infection, use the gel on the affected area 3-4 times per day by applying a small amount and letting it absorb into the skin.
Using Nature’s Aid regularly on your feet can help keep them smooth, healthy and rejuvenated – ready for whatever the day has to throw at you, all while looking impeccable too.