Have you ever looked down at your nails and noticed they were splitting, peeling, or breaking too easily? Maybe they feel thin, weak or even painful at times. Well, you are not alone; brittle nails are a common issue, especially among women. But have you ever wondered if it might be your body’s way of telling you something? Could brittle nails be a sign of a vitamin or mineral deficiency?
What are brittle nails?
Brittle nails are those that crack or split easily and have chips that feel dry, thin, or weak. It’s not just a beauty concern. Occasionally, your nails reflect what’s happening inside your body, especially if they have changed suddenly or haven’t improved despite regular care.
What causes brittle nails?
Common causes include vitamin or mineral deficiencies, frequent hand washing or chemical exposure. Sometimes, cold, dry weather or underlying health issues can also cause weak nails.
Also Read | Summer skincare guide: Treating sunburn, sweat rashes & more
Which deficiencies are linked to brittle nails?
Vitamin B7 is one of the most important vitamins for strong nails. It helps your body process fats and proteins. Low biotin could result in weak, brittle nails. Nuts and seeds, sweet potatoes, spinach and salmon are excellent sources of biotin. You can also find biotin supplements for hair, skin, and nails. Check with your doctor before starting one.
Iron helps make haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in your blood. Without enough iron, your nails can become thin and spoon-shaped. The sources of iron generally include red meat, lentils and beans, spinach, and tofu.
Zinc helps with cell growth and repair, which includes nail tissue. Low zinc levels might cause slow-growing nails and white spots on them. Zinc sources include chickpeas, nuts, whole grains, dairy products, and shellfish.
Vitamin B12 keeps your blood and nerve cells healthy. Deficiency might lead to blue or darkened nails. Vitamin B12 sources include fish, eggs, milk, and meat.
What else can cause brittle nails?
Washing dishes often? Using hand sanitiser or cleaning products without gloves? These dry out your nails. You can use hand cream and wear gloves. Gel nails, acrylics, and nail polish remover can weaken the bed of your nails. Give your nails a break from polish occasionally.
Tips to strengthen your nails
Whether or not you have a deficiency, taking care of your nails is essential. Simple habits like moisturising your hands and nails daily, trimming them regularly to avoid snags, and resisting the urge to bite or pick at them can make a big difference. Wearing gloves during chores also helps protect them from damage.
Also Read | How much sugar can you eat in a day without harming your health?
Brittle nails may sometimes signal a vitamin or mineral deficiency, especially if you’re also feeling tired or low on energy. But they can also result from daily habits or underlying health issues. The good news is that most causes are manageable. With a few changes in your diet, lifestyle, and nail care routine, your nails can become stronger and healthier over time.
