Food For Your Nails

Although they are dead tissue, nails are reliable indicators of our health and overall nutritional intake. Nail problems are often a sign of abuse (nail polish removers, glue, biting, chewing) or a nutritional deficiency.

Here are a few signs that may mean that your nails are asking for more:

• Brittle or concave nails with pale half-moons are a sign of iron, protein or calcium deficiency.

• External fibrous growths on the nails may mean that your diet contains excessive salt.

• Hyperthyroidism and anxiety can result in separation of nails from the nail bed.

• Bluish or yellowish discoloration of nails is usually a sign of respiratory and breathing problems.

• A pale nail bed is a diagnostic sign of anemia.

• Vitamin A deficiency can result in peeling nails while zinc deficiency inhibits proper nail growth.

• Thin, brittle nails may mean that you need to increase your intake of high quality fats and oils.

• Excessive consumption of refined foods and processed meats can cause ridges to form in the nails.

• If your nails are brittle and dry, increase your intake of items rich in Vitamin A such as apricots, carrots, greens and cheese. Carrot juice is said to be the magic elixir for nails.

• Almonds, along with dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt are an excellent source of calcium that helps strengthen nails.

• Drink plenty of water and other fluids – this will keep your nails well hydrated and smooth.

• Eat loads of fresh fruits and vegetables everyday to supply a wide range of nutrients and minerals that your nails need to stay healthy and beautiful.

• Consume foods rich in silicon and sulfur like onions, fish and broccoli.

• Biotin is crucial to the healthy growth and appearance of nails. You may get your dose from soy, brewer’s yeast, nuts, legumes, seeds and whole grains.

• Drink an infusion of alfalfa, burdock root, dandelion, and yellow dock.

• Nutritional supplements like kelp are rich in silica, zinc and Vitamin B complex that help in optimum growth of nails.

• Foods high in protein, folic acid and Vitamin C can help prevent hanging nails.

• Keep your hands clean and well-moisturized. A good way to do this is to rub some petroleum jelly or olive oil onto your nails before you go to bed.

• Wear gloves while doing dishes or housework to prevent chipping and discoloration.

• File your nails in one direction and do not do so when the nails are wet.

• Avoid using artificial ‘stick-on’ nails as the glue damages the underlying nail. Also, choose only good-quality nail-polish removers.

• Buff your nails occasionally and covet them with a protective coat.