Our nails often get the beating from daily activities and numerous coats of the season’s hottest colour. The nail’s primary function is to protect our sensitive finger tips. Think of the last time you cut your nails too short… ouch! Healthy nails should be strong and smooth. In order to maintain healthy growth and strength, nails require a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients. They tend to get put on the backburner when there aren’t enough nutrients for more important parts of the body. That is why nails are a quick and easy indicator nutrient deficiencies and overall health!
Cuticles are soft skin that makes a protective seal between skin and nail. They keep bacteria out and prevent infections. Cuticles often become dry because of weather, frequent exposure to detergents and hard water. Keeping them well moisturized will prevent nasty hang-nails & irritation.
Iron & the Maiden
As mentioned, nails require adequate supplies of oxygen for optimal growth. Iron is important for the delivery of nutrient-rich blood to the nails. Nails normally grow about 3mm every month, which may not seem like a lot, but when there’s lack of iron, they’ll take even longer to grow. Include rich sources of iron in your diet such as lean red meats, dried beans, iron-fortified cereals & spinach. Add sources of Vitamin C to boost iron absorption!
B3 – BINGO!
Niacin (Vitamin B3) helps keep circulation smooth. Similar to iron, niacin ensures adequate blood supply of oxygen and nutrients to skin, hair and nails. Improve your nail growth by consuming sources of Vitamin B3 daily such as meats, grains, milk, coffee, dried beans & nuts.
What if my nails are just weak?
Consider taking a second look at your calcium intake. Calcium builds strong bones, teeth & nails. However, weak nails are mainly caused from environmental stress or daily abuse. Check out these tips to protect your nails from the chilly winter months ahead!
Tips for Weak, Brittle Nails
- File nails from the corner to the centre! Don’t file from side-to-side. This weakens stress points on the nail’s edge
- Wear gloves when washing dishes or using harsh detergents
- Go bare! Excessive use of nail polish & remover dries out nails
- Choose a nail polish remover that contains moisturizers
- Try an overnight treatment! Squirt a bit of lime juice & extra-virgin olive oil on nails and rub into the cuticles. Cover hands with gloves & go to sleep! The lime juice helps to get rid of minor stains & the EVOO adds moisture
Thanks for these tips, Rylee.
I get dry cuticles in the wintertime and hangnails can be so painful! I’m definitely going to try the lime juice/evoo treatment.