Eat your way to healthy nails

If you are experiencing chopped and broken nails often, then you have a problem. The problem is usually from within. You should take a second look at your daily routine and the food you eat to obtain healthy nails. “If you notice after a day or two of manicure that you split your nail or if the skin surrounding your cuticles has become dry and flaky, then these are clear signs of poor nail health that should be taken seriously,” said dermatologist Dr. Halah Tariq.
Tweak your diet and add different kinds of foods to help benefit your nails, hair, skin and teeth. Dr. Tariq provides us with a list of recommended food that should be included in our everyday meals:
1) Eggs and meats are filled with protein. Nails are made of keratin, a protein. This is why a protein-rich diet is important to maintaining nail health. Include eggs and meat or any other protein-rich foods regularly and you never have to worry again about protein.
2) Broccoli: It is rich in Vitamin A, which is important for the fast growth of nails and for making them strong. Steam it and make a delicious dip and enjoy as a snack.
3) Milk: It is a great source of calcium and lack of calcium can cause the nails to be brittle and dry. Drink a warm glass of milk before going to bed and it will help you sleep well and help your nails grow healthy.
4) Citrus: Vitamin C is essential to make collagen, the structural cement of the body. Under the skin, collagen is the fibrous tissue that plumps it up giving support and shape. As skin ages it loses collagen. Have an orange, lemon, lime or kiwi to ensure that you have a daily dosage of vitamin C.
5) Water: Drinking eight glasses of water will help your skin stay hydrated. It also protects skin against UV damage.
6) Spinach: It is rich in iron and if you ever have thin, curved or ridged nails, it is a sign of anemia or an iron deficiency. Focus on eating lots of red meats and dark leaves like spinach and kale.
7) Nuts: Almonds and walnuts are rich in omega-3 essential fats, which help improve brain function, have cardio-protective benefits and reduce inflammatory response. Tirohey also provide the fatty acids your nails need to stay strong and prevent splitting. Sprinkle half a handful of nuts over your salad or stir-fry or mix into yogurt to get an omega-3 boost.

Other tips for great nails:
Dania Khafaji, founder of Spa to Go recommends women to not cut their cuticles because they are meant to be there as a barrier for bacteria. “Ask your manicurist to push the cuticles back with an exfoliating and water-less treatment. Never cut all the way around the cuticle because that will cause the skin to become ragged and tear, opening the body to bacteria,” she said.
Peeling old nail polish not only makes you look childish but it will also make your nails weak. “This will aggravate the nail base and lead to damage. Using a thick layer of polish causes it to peel. “If you apply very thin coats, letting the polish dry in between each layer so that the thinners fade, it will wear better and last longer. The manicurist should wait at least one minute between each coat and always make sure to use a basecoat. Always make sure your manicurist uses cuticle oil during the treatment,” she added.
Moisturize all day everyday. Almond oil, olive oil and heavy creams are recommended. “Try to keep your skin moisturized knowing it’s the body’s largest organ and needs special treatment,” she said. “Drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated and use cuticle oil whenever its possible and your nails will never be dry. It’s important to apply creams, especially before going to sleep,” she added.
Gloves are necessary when doing anything handy. “If you were gardening, washing the dishes, painting or anything that has direct contact with chemicals you should never do it without wearing gloves,” said Khafaji. “Try to use natural products after the use of chemicals and never use hot water on your nails because it softens it,” she added.
Chemicals affect nails and change their color. “If you notice a change in color in your nails, such as they turn yellow, it means they have been abused by chemicals present in different products,” said Khafaji. “Soak your nails in warm water with toothpaste, olive oil and lemon skin for 15 minutes then rinse off and moisturize,” she added.
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