Nail health is often overlooked, yet it reveals important insights about your overall well-being. Healthy nails are smooth, uniform in color, and consistent in texture. When nails start splitting or breaking, it may signal nutritional deficiencies, health conditions, or exposure to harmful substances.
Common Causes of Nail Splitting and Breaking
Nail splitting, medically known as onychoschizia, can be caused by:
Frequent exposure to water, harsh chemicals, detergents
Physical trauma like nail biting or using nails as tools
Health conditions (thyroid disorders, psoriasis, fungal infections)
Nutritional deficiencies, especially in biotin, iron, and zinc
The Role of Nutrition in Nail Health
Proteins, especially keratin, form the base of nails. Vitamins like biotin (B7), vitamin E, and minerals such as zinc and iron are essential for nail strength and growth. A balanced diet rich in these nutrients helps prevent brittleness and promotes healthy nails.
Manganese Deficiency: A Hidden Culprit
Manganese is crucial for bone formation, blood clotting, reducing inflammation, and collagen production (important for nail health). Deficiency, though rare, can cause brittle nails. Causes include poor diet or absorption issues.
How to Identify Manganese Deficiency in Your Body
Symptoms include brittle nails, weak bones, joint pain, and poor wound healing. Because it’s rarely tested in routine blood work, consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and dietary advice if you suspect a deficiency.
The Importance of a Balanced Diet for Strong Nails
Eat foods rich in:
Biotin (eggs, nuts, seeds)
Iron and zinc (leafy greens)
Protein for keratin production
A varied, nutrient-rich diet supports nail health and strength.
Top 10 Popular Home Remedies for Nail Health
This is one of my favorites. I feel like I can eat it all day long
Potato, Egg, and Mozzarella Bake
I grew up eating these, but don’t know why they aren’t made more. This recipe is so good and super easy to follow, esp for first timers
Old fashioned momma s meatloaf
Creole-Style Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo
“My mother-in-law buys these tablets even though she doesn’t have a dishwasher: Thanks to her tip, I also bought 1 pack for the whole year!”
Only a couple of items needed! Potatoes are very tasty and you will want to cook them repeatedly!
Place raw chicken in baking dish. In 3 easy steps, you have a scrumptious, savory meal
How to Make Blueberry Cookies
