Nails are made up mainly of keratin which is a hard protein and their main purpose is to protect the most nerve dense and sensitive part of your body which is of course, your fingertips and toes.  Looking at somebody’s fingertips and toes can give you an indication as to their general health.

Generally people with drier nails and ridges signifies that they may suffer from a lack of B vitamins and if your nails are very brittle it normally indicates a lack of vitamin A. Vertically ridged nails often means iron deficiency. Should your nails crack or split you could be lacking in hydrochloric acid. Hanging nails often points to a lack of protein in the body or lack of vitamin C or folic acid (or all of these).

If you want great nails eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein and at least 4 pints of water a day.

To improve your nail nutrients then sulfur is the best way to improve your nail flexibility, so the following foods are perfect; onions, egg yolk, Brussels  sprouts, hot peppers, fish, turnips and dairy products.
Harder and thicker nails require Biotin – brown rice, eggs, fish, oats, soybeans, brewer’s yeast.

Stronger and firmer nails require Silicon - strawberries, whole wheat, onions, oats, avocados, rice and nettles.

For flexibility and strength you need Folic acid – berries, whole grains, broccoli, kale, spinach, legumes and citrus fruits.

Glossier nails - essential fatty acids - flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil, blackcurrant oil and salmon.

Be sure to use hand cream and nourishing cuticle oil regularly.