We all strive for dazzling sets of nails that look naturally cute with a manicure treatment, but did you know nails have other purposes besides complimenting our beauty? Your nails are a reflection of your overall health. Yes, those odd white patches and frequent splits might be trying to tell you something, and you shouldn’t ignore it.
Unfortunately, most people hide their unattractive nails with a quality polish and call it a day. It might look pretty, but the underlying cause will remain intact without proper measures.
The ideal treatment comes from consistent healthy food intake. However, even in your daily portions, you may not be getting the right amount of sustenance you need. Brittle and unhealthy nails are often a sign of nutrient deficiencies, along with other factors such as aging, hormonal changes, and genetics.
That’s where supplements play an important role in your diet and lifestyle. Here are a few reasons why you should consider making them a part of your daily routine.
Why supplementation is essential
Supplements can enhance your health and provide dietary portions typically unattainable by ingesting food alone. We can take them in capsules or powders, and they’re available for purchase either at local stores or directly from manufacturing companies similar to Makers Nutrition. The combination of a nutritious diet with targeted supplementation goes a long way in promoting wellness.
Additionally, some supplements might have multiple purposes. Taking a supplement for your nails, for instance, might also help hair growth, as both need similar nutrients to stay healthy.
What are some of the best nutrients for nail health?
You can’t have strong nails (or a strong system) without the support from essential nutrients. These include:
Protein
Adequate protein intake is not only essential for building muscle, but also to improve keratin production. Keratin itself is a fibrous protein that is the main component of your nails. You can get your protein from animal sources, or, if you’re a vegan, quinoa, greens, tempeh — among other foods — will bring you the necessary amount of this macronutrient.
B-complex vitamins
Some vitamins belonging to this group can prevent your nails from looking unhealthy—that’s because vitamin B7 (or biotin) might help improve nail growth, while vitamins B9 (folate) and vitamin B12 work by transporting oxygen to your nail cells. Proper oxygenation prevents nail discoloration, since it boosts the production of red blood cells. These nutrients are part of foods such as nuts, eggs, green veggies, dairy products, and meats.
Vitamin C
While Vitamin C is the hero of flu season, it also assists in the the production of an elementary unit of fingernails — collagen! This protein strengthens and shapes your nails, so be sure to have your regular helping of oranges and bell peppers.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
We’re all about that luminescent nails vibe. Yes, you could fake it with a glossy top coat, but having a natural healthy glow is way better. These fatty acids prevent inflammation around your nail beds while lubricating your nails and giving them a shiny look.
You’re ready for the manicure
Now that you know there’s a lot behind that fresh coat of nail polish, you might want to consider nail care that goes beyond design.
Focus your attention on nail salons that offer treatments for all kinds of nail issues. Look for an established nail salon in Granada Hills, CA with good reviews. Places like these specialize in standard manicures, but also care for other recurring problems that might affect the beauty of your nails, like calluses, for example. Superficial treatments are complementary, but indispensable.
Nourish your body from the inside out and check your nails for assurance. They’re a fool-proof way to track how well your health is doing.
