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

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