How To Get Healthy Nails

How To Get Healthy Nails
Brittle nails are caused by excessive submersion of the nails
in water, or periods of ill health, or nails dried out from indoor
heat, exposure to detergents and too frequent use of nail polish
removers. To prevent brittle nails you could avoid exposure to
detergents, cleansers and other strong cleaning fluids - or wear
gloves; protect your nails from little bumps and possible injury by
wearing cotton gloves; and keep your nails short because the shorter
the nails the less the risk of damaging them.

You may have noticed that fingernails grow faster than toenails,
nails on the longest fingers grow the fastest and, if you are
right-handed, nails on that hand grow faster than on the left hand and
vice versa for left-handers. Fingernails also grow faster during the
summer, during pregnancy and when they are recovering from injury.

Deficiencies of iron and zinc may also affect nail quality. Iron
deficiency produces thinning of the nail, with a characteristic shape.
The normal rounded, downward curve is replaced by a flattening of the
nail which may be upturned, (spoon-shaped nails). This may be
particularly obvious on the thumbs. It is seen with chronic iron
deficiency and can even occur if the person isn't anaemic. The best
treatment for strong healthy nails is a good wholesome diet and to
protect fingernails from trauma especially excessive irritation from
soap and water.

Herbs and nutrients, often available combined in specific formula for promoting healthy nails include -

Vitamins : B Complex

Minerals : Silica, Iron, Zinc, Calcium

Food Supplements : Cod Liver Oil, Kelp