22 June,2010 07:24 AM IST | | Malini Banerjee
Discoloured, brittle nails are indicative of serious health conditions. active! brings you a match the following chart
Your hands might speak volumes about your grooming, but it's your nails that indicate how healthy you are.
Here are signs to watch out for:
Brittle nails Could indicate: Thyroid
Brittle nails are often attributed to a lack of calcium, but can sometimes signal more serious conditions. If your nails are so dry, they crack or split frequently, it can be indicative of a thyroid problem. If the cracking and splitting is accompanied by yellowing, it may be due to a fungal infection.
Ridged nails without half-moons
Could indicate: Kidney disorder
If your nails don't have any half moons or are ridged, it might be a symptom of Vitamin A deficiency, kidney disorder or even protein deficiency. Ridged nails are often a symptom of ageing as opposed to a serious disorder.
Yellow discolouration
Could indicate: Respiratory problem
This may result from a serious respiratory condition such as chronic bronchitis. In this condition, nails thicken and new growth slows, causing discoloration.
Soft nails with a hollowed-out look
Could indicate: Anaemia
Spoon nails are a sign of anaemia. The condition causes nails to become soft and acquire a hollowed out look.
White nails with dark rims
Could indicate:u00a0 Jaundice
This condition can be indicative of liver disorders such as jaundice.
6 ways to keep your nails healthy
Eat foods rich in Vitamin B7, which can treat the problem of brittle nails. B7 can be found in lentils and vegetables, including cauliflower.
Eat foods with a rich content of Vitamin A, potassium, phosphorus, and niacin. Foods rich in niacin include lean red meat, fish as well as dairy products.
Keep nails hydrated by applying a quality nail and cuticle oil containing Jojoba and Vitamin E.
Eat a well-balanced diet that supplies your body with adequate protein. Beans, eggs, and raw vegetable salads provide the body with zinc that's essential for nail health.
Include a good multivitamin or mineral supplement in your diet to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need.
Keep nails clean and dry. Wear gloves when using soap and water for prolonged periods of time. This helps avoid bacterial and fungal infections.
