Vitamin and mineral supplements
Vitamin A is necessary for nail growth and to assist in the repair of the nail bed.
Vitamin B2 promotes healthy nails and is needed for the nails to be formed.
Vitamin C boosts overall health and is involved making the protein component of nails. Deficiencies of vitamin C are associated with deformed nails.
Biotin strengthens keratin (the protein from which nails are formed).
Calcium helps to make nails strong.
Iodine improves nail condition.
Iron deficiencies can cause nail to be brittle, pale and have ridges.
Magnesium is necessary for repair and maintenance of the nail bed and therefore nail health. It also helps calcium do its job.
Zinc is necessary for healing and is crucial for nail growth.
Other nutrients and herbs
Omega 3 oils contain essential fatty acids that are vital for nail health.
Omega 6 oils strengthen nails.
Acidophilus will assist in fighting fungal infections that effect nails, as will tea tree oil applied externally to the affected nail. If you have a fungus affected nails you can also soak your fingers in a mixture of warm pacu d'arco and goldenseal tea for 15 minutes a day.
Garlic will help to improve the blood flow to the nail bed and this will improve the growth or nails. It will also assist in the fight against any infections, including fungal infections.
Ginkgo Biloba improves the circulation which will increase the nutrients that are available for nail health.
Milk thistle (silybum marianum) will assist to detoxify your liver and bloodstream.
Aloe vera will help to cleanse and heal the digestive tract.
Eating certain foods will assist in improving your general health as well as the health of your nails. These foods include:
salmon, mackerel and sardines
nuts and seeds
green leafy vegetables and fresh fruit
chicken and eggs
seaweed
You need to avoid the following:
animal fats which stimulate the production of free radicals which deplete your general health and this is reflected in your nails sugar or refined carbohydrates because fungi thrive on then
processed foods, and fried greasy foods
whenever possible, avoid drugs, alcohol, caffeine and oral contraceptives as they all place a strain on the liver
If you smoke you need to quit. Smoking contributes to poorer overall health, including poor quality nails.
Your nails are a reflection of your general health - the healthier your are the better your nails will be. By taking care of your health - eating well, having vitamin and minerals supplements and detoxifying your body - you will be taking care of your nails.
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