Nails are the toughened keratin at the end of our toes and fingers. Normally, nails are taken for granted because they all look normal and healthy but, we are wrong. Nails, As much as other parts of our body, Need proper care as well. Its not enough to just cut them once a week or when they’re long. Nails need vitamins and foods that can maintain its healthy status.
A healthy nail is smooth, without ridges and grooves. its should be free of spots or any kind of discoloration and healthy nails should be of thesame color as other nails in your hands. The best way to get healthy, strong and long nails is to eat the proper foods that can help its growth. Here are some of the foods that contain the essential vitamins needed for healthy nails and the effects it can cause if a person is deficient of it:
1. B vitamins
Lack of B vitamins: Dry and darkened nails
Foods rich in B vitamins: carrots, leafy greens, liver, tomatoes, nuts, peas, oatmeal, beans, eggs and dairy products.
2. Calcium and Protein
Lack of Ca and Protein: Dry and brittle nails
Foods rich in Ca and Protein: beans, legumes,yogurt and cheese
3. Zinc and Iron
Lack of Zinc and Iron: White areas on the nails due to pressure
Foods rich in Zinc and Iron: leafy greens, grains, seeds,broccoli, dairy products and tofu.
4. Vitamin C and Vitamin A
Lack of Vit C and A: Prevents dullness and dryness
Foods rich in Vit. C and A: Sweet potatoes, carrots, liver, bell peppers, fruits such as cantaloupe, oranges, mangoes, grapefruits and kiwi, and Cauliflower.
All those vitamins found in the foods that were mentioned will help maintain strong and healthy nails. Aside from that, there are a few more ways to keep your nails healthy. Here are a few tips that you can follow in order to have healthy nails. 1st, always cut your nails straight across. cutting it in a rounded shape can lead to ingrown toenails. 2nd, Wear rubber gloves in doing housework.
Housework such as washing dishes and doing laundry can be bad for the nails because they become exposed to harsh cleaning chemicals. 3rd, and last, keep nails hydrated. this can be done by simply applying petroleum jelly on the cuticles. By eating right and following the tips, you’ll have healthy nails in no time.
