Does Diet Affect Fingernail Strength?
If you have ever wondered if diet contributes to strong and healthy fingernails, you are not alone. Millions of Americans are on a quest to keep their nails strong and looking healthy and natural. However, many do not know that diet can be a major factor that influences how their fingernails look and feel. Just like other areas of the body nutrition has a big impact on fingernails.
Other factors can influence fingernail health and well-being too.
Nutrition for Healthy Fingernails
In order for nails to grow and develop properly, many different nutrients are needed. Research has shown that good hydration and adequate amounts of protein, as well as the following vitamins and minerals in your diet can help keep your nails strong and growing properly:
- Zinc
- Vitamin B
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C or ascorbic acid
- Calcium
- Iron
- Phosphorus
- Silica
- Sulfur containing foods such as eggs, garlic and fish
- Biotin
- Folic acid
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
Essential fatty acids, like those found in fish oil or flax seed oil can also help moisturize and strengthen nails. Many people falsely believe that gelatin supplements will help strengthen nails. It is also a false belief that if you have vertical ridges in your fingernails that you are unhealthy or lacking something in your diet.
In general, a well-balanced diet with lots of water will help keep your fingernails healthy and strong. Eating many fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as well as minimally processed foods will help.
Non-Diet Strategies for Healthy Fingernails
In addition to diet, there are many other things people can do to keep their nails healthy and strong. Good hygiene is important to keep nails infection free. Infections can change the shape of the nail bed and cause deformities. Infected nails also break very easily, are discolored and grow slowly. Overusing nail polish or nail polish remover and other chemicals can also cause damage, dry out, and weaken fingernails. Keeping your hands and fingernails well hydrated with a quality moisturizer can also help your nails be strong and appear healthy.
Additional Help for Your Nails
There are times where no matter what you do to take care of yourself your nails may still need some additional care and attention. If you need help keeping your nails looking healthy and beautiful, Evergreen Beauty College can help. Our students are trained in state of the art nail care and can help you with whatever your nail care needs are. From a simple manicure to a complete set of acrylic nails and everything in between, we do it all. Let our student nail technicians supplement the care you give to your nails to keep your hands looking and feeling great. Healthy fingernails are the result of good nutrition and proper care.
