What Your Nails Say About Your Health


Do you know what your nails look like without polish? Sometimes it’s not pretty. For those of us who are constantly trying out new weekly manis (guilty!) it’s important to know what’s going on underneath the polish. I recently came across an interesting blog post on Healthidia.com about what appearance of your nails can tell you about your health. I must admit that what I’ve learned was fascinating! Here is a quick list of what your nails might be trying to tell you about your health.



White Nails  
Contrary to what most people believe, white nails do not indicate calcium or zinc deficiency. It is rather a minor nail trauma usually harmless caused to the nail plate when it grows. If all the nails are white in entirety, your will have to undergo liver and kidney function tests. White nails are often indicative of diabetes, cirrhosis or even heart problems.

Brittle. 
Brittle nails can mean that you aren’t eating enough iron-rich foods in your diet. Amp up your irons and strengthen your nails by eating more leafy green vegetables and eggs. A breakfast veggie scramble is a healthy and delicious solution! You will also help your nails get stronger by drinking tons of water. Eight glasses a day is my motto.

Spoon Nails 
You have a condition called spoon nails when your nails begin to grow upwards taking a concave shape, spoon-like. Although it is harmless, it may be a way of informing you that there’s a serious underlying a liver disease or heart disease or even hyperthyroidism.  So, you must get the spoon nails investigated.  

Cracked/Split Nails  
Often brittle nails crack or split; the causes could either be prolonged contact in water or strong detergents. And, if your nails are white or yellow and have developed cracks beneath the nail plate it could signify a fungal infection. Other reasons include endocrine disorders, malnutrition, oral medications rich in vitamin A, psoriasis, or TB. Keep your nails moisturized by rubbing some moisturizer around your nails. Start wearing gloves if you use a lot of soaps and chemicals. Trim your nails regularly.

Ridges
I used to think ridges on your nails were a bad sign…turns out they are totally normal! But according to Healthidia.com, ridges can sometimes be a sign that you’re super stressed. If you feel like you’re always anxious, get lots of sleep and try to relax .

Make sure you take a good look at your nails and see if it needs immediate attention of a health care provider.

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