Question : My daughter and I have brittle nails. What can we take to promote healthy nail growth?
Answer : HEALTHY nails beds are pink, indicating a rich blood supply. Changes or abnormalities in the nails are often the result of nutritional deficiencies or other underlying conditions. For instance, a lack of vitamin A, essential fatty acids and calcium causes dryness and brittleness while lack of sufficient friendly bacteria (Lactobacillus acidophilus) in the body can result in the growth of fungus under and around nails.
For healthy nails, be sure to get plenty of quality protein. Eat grains, legumes, oatmeal, nuts and seeds. Have a diet with 50 per cent fresh fruits and raw vegetables to supply essential vitamins, minerals and enzymes for healthy nail growth.
Cracks and cuts in the nails may also indicate a need for more liquid. Drink plenty of water and drink a glass of fresh carrot juice daily. This is high in calcium and phosphorus that is essential for strengthening the nails. Supplement your diet with flaxseed oil, a good source of omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 essential fatty acids which nourish and strengthen the nails.
Keep your nails short. Do not immerse your hand in water that contains detergents or chemicals too frequently.
Use nail polish removers as little as possible. They may contain solvents that leach lipids from nails and make them brittle.