Brittle and weak nails are not only unsightly but also quite uncomfortable. Strong and healthy nails require not just good manicure practices but also proper nutrition. Here are the ten natural ingredients you can use to strengthen your nails.
1. Biotin
Biotin is a B-complex vitamin that helps to promote healthy and strong nail, hair and skin growth. A deficiency of biotin results in brittle nails. Foods that contain biotin include whole grains, eggs, mushrooms, fish, and avocados.
Also, you can take biotin supplements, but it’s always best to consult a physician before adding supplements to your diet.
2. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the nails from damage and promote growth. It also helps keep the nail beds moisturized, preventing cracks and breaks. Foods that contain vitamin E include nuts, seeds, avocados, and leafy greens.
You can also take vitamin E supplements or incorporate it into some nail care products.
3. Vitamin D
Vitamin D promotes healthy bones and nails, making them less likely to break or crack. Foods that contain vitamin D include salmon, fortified cereals, and yogurt. However, the best way to get vitamin D is through exposure to sunlight.
4. Iron
Iron enables the body to produce hemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen to the nails. A deficiency of iron leads to nails being weak and prone to breakage. Foods that contain iron include red meat, legumes, spinach, and tofu.
If you have an iron deficiency, it’s best to consult a physician before adding supplements to your diet.
5. Zinc
Zinc is crucial for the proper growth and development of tissues in the body, including the nails. A deficiency of zinc can result in white spots on the nails. Foods that contain zinc include oysters, pumpkin seeds, chicken, and beans.
6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy nail growth and prevent the nails from becoming dry and brittle. Foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, nuts, seeds, and avocados.
You can also take omega-3 supplements or incorporate it into some nail care products.
7. Horsetail
Horsetail is a herb that contains silica, which helps to regulate the production of collagen in the body. Collagen is crucial for nail and hair growth. Horsetail can be taken as a supplement or added to your diet through tea or tincture forms.
8. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that help to nourish and moisturize the nails. It also helps to strengthen the nails. To use coconut oil, apply a small amount to the nail beds and cuticles and massage gently.
9. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which helps to prevent infections of the nail bed and cuticles. It also helps to strengthen the nails.
To use apple cider vinegar, mix equal parts vinegar and warm water in a bowl and soak your nails for about ten minutes. Rinse your nails and dry thoroughly.
10. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural bleach that helps to whiten the nails and remove stains. It also helps to strengthen the nails. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and olive oil in a bowl and soak your nails for about ten minutes. Rinse your nails and dry thoroughly.
Conclusion
To sum it up, maintaining strong and healthy nails requires proper nutrition and care. The ten natural ingredients mentioned above are excellent components that can help strengthen your nails and provide extra nourishment and moisture.
Adding them to your diet and nail care routine can go a long way in keeping your nails healthy and beautiful.