Healthy Nails

The nail is typically composed of laminated layers of keratin which is a kind of a protein and they grow from the area that is at the base of the nail, under the cuticle. As the new cells start growing, the older cells tend to get compacted and hard and are then pushed out towards the fingertips. Healthy nails are those that are without ridges or grooves and are smooth. They are uniform in consistency and color and are free from any discoloration and spots. How to get healthy nails is a commonly raised query which can be addressed by certain simple home remedies and proper care. Those who have the problem of dry and brittle nails should increase their intake of foods like broccoli, apricots, carrots, cheese and the like which are rich in vitamin A.

They should also increase their intake of calcium rich foods like almonds, milk, yogurt and so on. Before going to bed, every night, its also advisable to wash the hands thoroughly and then wipe them dry with a towel. Thereafter one should apply a hand moisturizer and a little bit of petroleum jelly into the skin surrounding the nails as well as the cuticles. Those who do a lot of housework such as washing of vessels, clothes and similar other chores should always wear hand gloves so as to prevent the nails from getting chipped because of the harsh chemicals present in most household cleaning products. One can also have healthy nails by drinking plenty of fluids in the form of juices and water as this will help in keeping both the body and the nails hydrated and supple. One should also have plenty of carrot juice for healthy nails as carrot juice is an excellent source of phosphorus and calcium which helps strengthen the nails. Nails can also be kept strong and shiny by buffing them from time to time as buffing tends to stimulate the growth of the nails by augmenting the supply of blood to the nail. Healthy and strong nails can also be gained by reducing the intake of alcohol and sugar as well as that of saturated fats. Sometimes, people develop horizontal ridges on the nails which may be an indication of a psychological or physical trauma which could arise from an infection or a disease. Vertical ridges in the nails indicate lack of absorption of essential nutrients such as iron or overall poor health.