Q: I have seen some interesting articles in your column and am wondering if in your knowledge or experience you have heard of or know of anything that I can add to my diet or something I can do to make my fingernails stronger.
Thank you in advance for any attention you give this problem.
A: Nails, like teeth and eyes, are often the things a person will notice about you almost immediately. You extend your arm to shake hands. Your hands are on display and very much in the limelight. Therefore, it is appropriate to keep your nails and hands (as well as the rest of your body) looking healthy. Many people have fingernails that break easily, are ridged, turn yellow, and are brittle. Actually, all of these unwanted symptoms may be indicative of simple dehydration. There’s also question that a nutritional deficiency may have a bearing but this remains controversial.
Steps to correct your problem are relatively simple. For example, your nails should be kept hydrated. This can be accomplished by massaging a lotion with vitamin E, olive oil, or a petroleum jelly product into the cuticles and skin surrounding the nails. One simple method is to purchase either petroleum jelly or Bag Balm, a medicated product I heartily endorse, that will work wonders. Have a pair of white cotton gloves ready. Literally lather the goopy petroleum jelly or Bag Balm onto your nails and slip the gloves on prior to going to sleep for the evening. If your hands are rough, chapped, dry, and if your finger tips are split from cold winter weather, spread the product onto your hands, as well. By morning you will have baby-smooth hands and better looking nails.
Apply a fresh coat of clear nail polish every day to your nails. There are products specifically geared toward hardening nails. If you are an individual who prefers colored nail polish, begin by coating your nails with a base coat, then add the colored polish, and finishing with a top coat. When you decide to remove any buildup of polish (perhaps every week to 10 days), be sure to use a polish remover that is free of acetone, a product that dries nails out.
Consider taking biotin (a B vitamin) several times a day. The recommend amount is 2.5 mgto be taken with each meal. Be sure your physician approves of the supplement prior to adding it to your daily regimen. Veterinarians have found that biotin strengthens horses’ hooves and works well for human nails, as well. In fact, in one study 65% of the participants who took biotin for brittle nails experienced improvement.
Massage your nails. Buffing may stimulate the matrix of the nails to grow. You can purchase a buffer at your local pharmacy or make one at home from soft cloth.
Modify your diet by eating healthier. Drink a glass of milk, eat a hard boiled egg, add cauliflower, lentils, bananas, salmon and peanuts. All are high in vitamin H (also known as biotin), known to strengthen nails.
Avoid harsh dish washing liquids and strong chemicals. Purchase a pair of gloves and be sure to wear them prior to washing those dinner dishes or cleaning the floor with a harsh chemical that can wreak havoc on your weakened nails. Dry your hands well when you complete your household chores. Moisture weakens nails, causing them to weaken.
Begin the whole healthy process by keeping your nails trimmed relatively short. Long nails have a tendency to catch on clothing or other objects and break in a jagged manner. If you are concerned enough to write, you can find time to take the necessary steps to stronger, healthier nails naturally. You’ll be glad you did.
