Food and Diet for Healthy, Strong and Beautiful Nails

Know 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.

Nourishment for 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.

Some More Tips to Keep your Nails Healthy, Strong and Beautiful

• 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.