Nails are often overlooked, but they can actually give us clues about our overall health. Changes in nail color, texture, and shape can indicate underlying health conditions or nutrient deficiencies.

Below are 7 common symptoms found on nails and what they may indicate about your health.

1. Yellowing of Nails

If your nails are yellow, it may be a sign of a fungal infection. Fungus thrives in warm and moist environments, which is why nails are susceptible to infection.

Other factors that can contribute to nail fungus include excessive sweating, wearing tight shoes, and having poor circulation.

If you have a fungal infection, you may notice that your nails are thick, brittle, and have a foul odor. To treat nail fungus, your doctor may prescribe antifungal medication or recommend over-the-counter treatments.

It’s also important to keep your nails clean and dry to prevent further infection.

2. White Spots on Nails

Contrary to popular belief, white spots on nails are not a sign of calcium deficiency. Instead, they may indicate trauma to the nail or a zinc deficiency.

If you’ve recently bumped your nail or hit it against something, a white spot may appear as the nail bed heals.

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. If you’re not getting enough zinc in your diet, you may notice white spots on your nails.

To increase your zinc intake, eat foods like oysters, beef, whole grains, and nuts.

3. Brittle Nails

If your nails are brittle, it may be a sign of dehydration or a nutrient deficiency. Nails are made up of keratin, a protein that requires moisture to stay strong and healthy.

When you’re dehydrated, your body may divert water away from your nails, causing them to become brittle.

A deficiency in biotin, a B vitamin, can also cause nails to become brittle and weak. To promote healthy nails, drink plenty of water throughout the day and eat foods like eggs, salmon, avocado, and nuts that are rich in biotin.

4. Spoon Nails

Spoon nails, or koilonychia, is a condition where the nails curve inward and resemble a spoon. This can be a sign of iron-deficiency anemia, a condition where there’s a decreased amount of red blood cells in the body.

Iron is a mineral that’s essential for making hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. If you have a spoon-shaped nail, it’s important to have your iron levels checked by a doctor.

To increase your iron intake, eat foods like spinach, red meat, lentils, and fortified cereals.

5. Dark Lines on Nails

If you notice dark lines on your nails, it may be a sign of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Melanoma can occur on any part of the body, including the nails.

It’s important to monitor any changes in the color or shape of your nails and to seek medical attention if you notice any abnormalities.

6. Clubbing of Nails

Clubbing of nails is a condition where the fingers and toes appear rounder and the nails curve downward. This can be a sign of lung disease, heart disease, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Clubbing of nails is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath or digestive problems. If you notice your nails are clubbed, it’s important to see a doctor and get a proper diagnosis.

7. Horizontal Ridges on Nails

Horizontal ridges on nails, also known as Beau’s lines, can occur as a result of trauma to the nail or a health condition that affects nail growth.

Conditions that can cause horizontal ridges include psoriasis, circulatory problems, and autoimmune disorders.

If you have horizontal ridges on your nails, it’s important to determine the underlying cause. Treatment may involve addressing the underlying condition or taking steps to promote nail growth and repair.