Nails are an important part of the body that require proper nutrition to remain healthy and strong. If your nails are weak, brittle, or misshapen, it may be a sign that you are missing certain essential vitamins and minerals.

In this guide, we will discuss the effects of missing nutrients on your nails and how to address these deficiencies.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is essential for nail health as it helps to strengthen nails and prevent them from becoming dry and brittle.

If you are deficient in vitamin A, your nails may become thin and weak, and if the deficiency is severe, your nails can also become dry and rough.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is necessary for healthy nail growth as it helps to create new red blood cells that transport oxygen to the nail bed. Without enough vitamin B12, your nails may be slow to grow and become weak and easily breakable.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential for healthy collagen production, and collagen is a protein that makes up a significant portion of your nails. If you are deficient in vitamin C, your nails may be brittle and weak, and you may also develop hangnails.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects your nails from free radical damage, which can cause your nails to become brittle and thin.

If you do not have enough vitamin E in your diet, you may develop ridges in your nails and they may become more fragile as you age.

Iron

Iron is an essential mineral that helps transport oxygen throughout the body, including to the nail bed. Without enough iron, your nails may become weak, brittle, and prone to breaking.

Zinc

Zinc is necessary for healthy nail growth, and a deficiency can cause your nails to become weak and easily breakable. Zinc also supports the immune system, which can help prevent nail infections.

Biotin

Biotin is a B vitamin that is essential for healthy nail growth. If you do not have enough biotin in your diet, your nails may be thin, brittle, or slow to grow. Biotin is commonly included in hair, skin, and nail supplements to promote healthy growth.

Protein

Protein is necessary for the formation of keratin, which is the protein that makes up your nails. Without enough protein in your diet, your nails may become weak, brittle, and prone to breaking.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy nail growth and are necessary for the production of natural oils that keep your nails moisturized. A deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids can cause your nails to become dry, brittle, and easily breakable.

Water

Drinking enough water is essential for overall nail health, as well as the health of your skin and hair. Without enough water, your nails may become dry, brittle, and prone to breaking.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing nail problems, it is possible that you are missing certain essential vitamins and minerals in your diet.

By incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods into your diet, as well as staying hydrated, you can support healthy nail growth and prevent common nail problems.