Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a significant role in maintaining optimal health. It is crucial for bone and teeth health, blood clotting, nerve function, and muscle function.

Lack of calcium in the body can lead to several health problems, including osteoporosis, dental problems, nerve damage, and weak muscles.

Low calcium levels in the body can be difficult to detect, and many people may not know that they have low levels. However, checking your nails can help you spot low calcium levels in your body.

Nails are an excellent indicator of calcium deficiency as they reflect the overall health of your body.

What Causes Low Calcium Levels?

Several factors can cause low calcium levels in the body, including:.

Low calcium intake
Vitamin D deficiency
Low levels of parathyroid hormone
Malabsorption problems
Medications that disrupt calcium metabolism
Endocrine diseases such as hypoparathyroidism and hyperthyroidism

How Do Nails Indicate Low Calcium Levels?

Calcium is a crucial nutrient for nail growth, and low calcium levels can lead to weak and brittle nails. Your nails can show several signs of low calcium levels. Here are some potential indicators:.

White Spots

White spots on your nails indicate mineral deficiency, which includes calcium. This condition is also known as leukonychia. White spots occur when there is a disruption in nail growth due to nutrient deficiency or trauma.

If you notice white spots frequently, it is worth checking your calcium levels.

Ridges and Lines

Horizontal ridges and lines on your nails can indicate low calcium levels. These ridges are known as Beau’s lines and form when there is a disruption in the growth of your nail.

The lines may appear due to a calcium deficiency or other health problems such as illness, trauma, or a severe infection.

Wavy Nails

Wavy nails are another indication of low calcium levels in the body. Wavy nails appear when your body lacks essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including calcium.

These nails have a soft texture that can lose their shape easily, making them susceptible to breaks and cracks.

Yellow Nails

Yellow nails are a sign of a fungal infection or autoimmune disease. However, it can also indicate low calcium levels, especially if your nails are brittle and dry.

When your body does not have enough calcium, the nails become weak and brittle, leading to flaking, cracking, and yellowing.

How Can You Prevent Low Calcium Levels?

Preventing low calcium levels in your body is essential to maintain overall health. To prevent low calcium levels, you can:.

Incorporate calcium-rich foods in your diet such as milk, cheese, yoghurt, and green leafy vegetables
Take calcium supplements after consulting with your doctor
Spend time in the sun to get Vitamin D3
Exercise regularly
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Conclusion

Checking your nails can help you spot low calcium levels in your body. White spots, ridges, wavy nails, and yellow nails are all potential signs of calcium deficiency.

If you notice any of these signs, you should consider visiting your doctor to check your calcium levels and take steps to address the issue.