Healthy, strong nails are typically taken for granted, but their condition can be a surprise predictor of your overall health. When nails often split, break, or show strange symptoms, they may indicate nutritional inadequacies or underlying health issues. Recognizing these indicators early on can not only improve the appearance of your nails, but it can also alert you to body needs that, if handled promptly, can improve your overall health and prevent future complications.

In this nail health exploration, we will look at the numerous reasons why nails can become weak or brittle, as well as what your body is trying to communicate via these changes. Understanding these causes, which range from the effects of your diet and environmental variables to more serious health concerns, can help you make informed decisions about your nutrition and lifestyle, and when to seek professional guidance. This comprehensive look at nail health aims to equip you with the information you need to maintain not only beautiful nails but also a healthy body.

1. Nutritional Deficiencies

Lack of Biotin

Biotin, a B vitamin, is essential for the health of your hair, skin, and nails. A biotin deficit can result in brittle, easily splitting nails. Biotin-rich foods include eggs, almonds, cauliflower, cheese, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and spinach.

Iron Deficiency

Iron is essential for your body’s creation of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen to cells, including those involved in nail development and health. An iron deficit can cause brittle, irregularly formed nails. Consider increasing your iron intake by eating more spinach, red meat, lentils, and fortified cereals.

Insufficient Protein Intake

Nails are made up primarily of keratin, a protein. A protein-deficient diet might result in weakened nails and increased breaking. Incorporate extra lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, and dairy products into your diet to increase your protein intake.

2. Hydration Issues

Dehydration can have a big influence on your nails, making them brittle and more likely to split. Drinking enough of water throughout the day helps keep nails flexible and strong.