Weak Nails & Nutrition
Nail health is an indicator of overall health in human beings. The nails of the hands and feet change color or texture depending on how strong the circulatory system is, how healthy the body is and the nutritional value of the diet. Environmental impact and emotional stresses can be factors in nail health, but nutrition and deficiencies have the greatest impact on formation and growth of nails, skin and hair.
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Nail Formation
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Nails are a type of modified skin, protecting the nerve-filled tips of the fingers and toes, and can reflect the health of the body. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nails grow faster on men in the summer months and on the dominant hand. The keratin cells found in the skin are formed from living cells in the fingers. New growth in the half moon area of the nail push old cells out, and they harden, forming nails.
Nail Issues
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Symptoms in nails caused by poor nutrition include dryness from lack of calcium and vitamin A, ridges and lines, darkening and curvature because of vitamin B deficiencies and white bands because of protein deficiency. Fungus can form under and around nails due to lack of friendly bacteria or lactobacillus. Splitting nails can be caused by lack of hydrochloric acid, a gastric acid necessary for the digestion of food. Some anemias and coronary conditions can have an impact on nail health and growth. Poor nutrition isn't the only culprit in nail health, but its impact is unmistakable.
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Nail Color
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Nails can change color and condition due to other factors than nutrition. Different colors can indicate different conditions such as purple, which suggests a lack of oxygen; green, an allergy to cleaners; and black, indicating a possible liver or kidney issue. Fungal infections can turn the nail chalky white or gray and indicate a possible zinc deficiency. Brown spots can suggest a deficiency of folic acid or vitamin C. Blue nails, like purple, can indicate circulatory problems, but can also represent abnormally high hemoglobin.
Nutrition
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Dr. Joey Shulman of "Canadian Living" magazine suggests a daily sprinkle of almonds and walnuts for Omega-3 essential fats, providing nails with fatty acids necessary for strength and to prevent splitting. Iron and protein feed the nails and nail beds, keeping them healthy, well-oxygenated and growing. Good sources of iron include dark veggies and lean meats. Fish and turkey are packed sources of lean and healthy protein. Avoid refined foods, high sources of sugar and saturated fats.
Considerations
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Nutrition is unquestionably a factor in good nail health. Strong, naturally colored nails indicate a healthy system, while changes in color and shape are often indicators of ill health or coming health issues. Environment can also have an impact on nails with pollution being a contributor. Taking care of nails means less chance of fungal infections, weakening and poor growth. Washing the hands, better exercise for circulation and reducing stress can have a positive effect on the look and health of nails.
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References
Resources
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