Brittle Nails and Vitamin Deficiency

Aging is one of the most common causes for brittle nails. The condition is often seen in elderly people, but young people too suffer from brittleness of nails, which is otherwise known as 'onychorrhexis'. Apart from aging, there are various other factors that may cause brittle nails.

Nails are made up of protein layers and their strength and thickness are determined by genes. Brittle nails is a condition, which is caused by separation and breakage of the protein layers, that constitute the nails. This is a common problem faced by around 20% of the people across the globe, especially women.

Brittleness is characterized by breaking or peeling of the horizontal layers of the nails. Usually, such peeling and breaking starts from the nail tips. The nails may break, crack, split, or chip very easily. It may also get difficult to grow such nails.

Brittle nail causes include heredity; excess use of soaps, detergents and nail polish remover; overexposure to water; and certain medical conditions, like hypothyroidism, anemia, anorexia nervosa or bulimia, and nail biting habit. Many people are born with thin nails, which are more prone to become brittle, due to any of these causes.

Even those with thick nails may develop this condition. Improper nail care may also lead to brittleness. Another common cause is vitamin deficiency, due to which the nails may turn white, dry and brittle.

Nails are made of keratin produced in the skin. Like skin, nails too need enough nutrition for healthy growth. Vitamin deficiency can lead to brittle nails, along with other conditions. A deficiency of vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D may result in brittleness of nails. Here are some vitamins, minerals and other compounds needed for healthy nails.

• Vitamin A deficiency can adversely affect nail health, as this vitamin aids the body to process proteins. As protein is a main constituent of nails, a deficiency of vitamin A affects the nails and makes them brittle and dry. It is also said that, retinoid (a derivative of vitamin A) deficiency may cause brittle nails.

• B vitamins are also essential for the nails, especially biotin or vitamin B7 and vitamin B12. B vitamins strengthen the nails; and prevent dryness, darkening, and curving of ends.

• Vitamin C deficiency can lead to hangnails, swelling of nail tissues and brittleness. These conditions may be painful and cause infections too.
• Vitamin D and calcium are also needed for healthy and strong nails. Vitamin D deficiency affects absorption of calcium in the body, which in turn results in brittle nails.

Nutrients for nails include proteins, hydrochloric acid, essential fatty acids, silicon, zinc, iron, copper, and selenium. Inadequate intake of foods containing these nutrients can also lead to brittle nails.

You can counter this problem by adopting a proper balanced diet, which takes care of the nutritional requirements of nails. Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet, and drink lots of water. In case of severe symptoms, approach a dermatologist for proper treatment. Brittle toenails in children could be an indication of some underlying health problem.

Disclaimer: This story is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.