I have found over time that most people pay close attention to their body, skin, hair etc. and some how neglect or pay less attention to their nails. Studies have shown that the nails can tell a lot about our health and nutritional needs because the nail tissues are constantly renewed and any change in shape or appearance could be related to your health. Some of the nail challenges like brittle nails, infections and diseases that affect some people could easily be prevented or treated much quicker, there are deliberate steps to take if you want strong and healthy nails, some of which we are already doing unconsciouslyNutrition plays a key role in our general health and wellbeing, it is important to narrow down these foods and vitamins so as to be more conscious of their intake.
Nutritional deficiencies · Iron Deficiency Nails that are thin, cracked and have a spoon like shape, excessive discoloration or pale fingernails. Other causes of this condition include trauma to the nails, excessive contact with solvents like detergent, radiation and chemotherapy, anemia which also a possible cause is attributed to low levels of iron in the body.What to eatIron can be gotten through animal based foods and plant based food. Animal-based foods such as poultry, pork, red meat , seafood, calcium rich foods (broccoli, cheese, yogurt) etc. Plant-based foods include apricots, beans, raisins, dark green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach), peas, lentils etc.
· Zinc DeficiencyNails with white patches under the nails or white spots on the nail bed, horizontal lines or bands on the nails. Other causes include deficiency in calcium and B Vitamin, excessive nail biting, nail injuries and side effect of some drugs can cause this deficiency. What to eatEggs, dairy products, meat, whole grains, dark leafy vegetables, seeds etc.
Biotin Deficiency Nails that are extremely brittle which causes nail breakage and crumbling as known as eggshell nails, nails that split and ridging nails. There are several causes which include injury or trauma to the nails, malnutrition most especially the deficiency of biotin which part of the B vitamin family, low calcium level, aging which is very common with older people because of the low cell turnover. What to eatFresh vegetables, fruits, saltwater fish, fish liver oil, avocado, beef liver, cereals, pork, whole grains etc.
Vitamin C DeficiencyNails with thin red, brown or black lines running through the length of the nails. Not all cases of this effect is cause by nutrient deficiency other causes include external trauma or injury to the small blood vessels that are under the nail bed. What to eatTomatoes, white and sweet potatoes, citrus fruits, spinach, broccoli etc.
SupplementsThere are also a lot of nutritional supplements that help provide several nutrients and minerals which serve as an addition to your diet. These supplements are not substitutes for the fresh foods, they are only advised to be used to complement our balanced diet for nutritional and physiological benefits, examples include vitamins, biotin, folic acid supplements etc.
Disclaimer: Please note that I am not claiming to be Medical doctor and I am not offering any medical prescriptions. All I have written and recommended here are from my experience as a Professional Nail Technician and things that have worked for my clients that have sort medical help. Please check with your doctor and nutritionist before using any supplements or drastically changing your diet.
Disclaimer: Please note that I am not claiming to be Medical doctor and I am not offering any medical prescriptions. All I have written and recommended here are from my experience and research as a Professional Nail Technician with over 8 years work experience and things that have worked for my clients that have sort medical help. Please check with your doctor and nutritionist before using any supplements or drastically changing your diet. Thank you.
I hope this helps you in achieving strong and healthy nails. Thank you for reading.
Embellish by Sarah James 