Normally, a lot of us don’t really think about nail health that much. Which makes sudden changes to your nails concerning. Especially if you don’t know why your nails have changed. Let us be guided by this article prepared by the best naturopathic practitioners on how to support your nails with the proper nutrients and vitamins.
Some of the main reasons your nail might change include fever, chemotherapy, severe illness, major stress, or nutrient deficiencies. The changes that you might see because of this include:
- Trauma or damage to the nails.
- A reduced rate of growth of your nails.
- Pitting or ridges forming on your nails.
- Changes in nail colour – other than nail polish.
Nutrient Deficiencies
These aren’t the only factors that can change your nails. They are also susceptible to nutrient deficiencies. Different nutrient deficiencies that might impact your nail health include:
- B group vitamins (biotin, B12, B9): these nutrients are needed to support normal nail growth. Without them your nails can be brittle and/or discoloured.
- Iron: helps supply your nails with the oxygen they need to grow well, insufficient iron can lead to vertical ridges on your nails or concave nails.
- Magnesium: needed for nail growth as it supports protein synthesis.
- Protein: needed to give strength, structure, and resilience to your nails.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: helps to nourish and promote the health of your nail bed. Insufficient amounts of this nutrient can lead to you having dry and brittle nails.
- Vitamin C: supports the production of collagen. A deficiency in this vitamin results in slow nail growth and brittle nails.
- Zinc: supports the health growth and division of cells, especially fast-growing cells like nails. Insufficient zinc can lead to white spots forming on your nails.
Supporting Nail Health
The best way to make sure that you have strong, healthy nails is to eat a nutrient rich diet. You’ll want to eat a wide variety of foods that are as close to how you would find them in nature as possible. Try to eat a wide variety of different coloured fruits and vegetables. Source meat, vegetable, and fruit from organic sources where possible.
Should you need further help, or have questions that aren’t answered here, you can also have a chat with your Naturopath for further information.
