Nails are not only an aesthetic element, but also a reflection of our general health. Although there are several factors that can affect nail health, such as trauma and certain medical conditions, a common condition that often goes unnoticed is split nails. Split nails, also known as onychoschizia, can be a telltale sign of an underlying vitamin deficiency.
Split nails occur when the layers of the nail plate separate from each other, usually starting at the fingertips and extending toward the nail bed. This separation can lead to weak, brittle, thin nails that are prone to breaking. To understand the possible relationship between split nails and vitamin deficiency, it is important to analyze the role that vitamins play in nail health and how their deficiency can affect their integrity.
Vitamin deficiency is one of the main causes of nail abnormalities, such as split nails.
Adequate levels of vitamins, such as biotin (also known as vitamin B7), vitamin C and vitamin E, are essential for maintaining the strength and health of our nails. Biotin is widely recognized for its positive effects on nail health and is commonly used to treat onychoschizia. This vitamin helps strengthen the structure of the nail, promoting its flexibility and resistance to breakage. Likewise, vitamin C plays a crucial role in the synthesis of collagen, the main protein component of nails, and its deficiency can cause nail fragility and breakage. Lastly, vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting nail bed cells from damage and contributing to overall nail health.
- A lack of it can weaken your nails, making them more likely to break.
- Biotin, vitamin C and vitamin E are key vitamins for maintaining strong and healthy nails.
Although split nails may indicate a vitamin deficiency, it is important to note that other factors, such as excessive exposure to moisture, the use of harsh chemicals, or certain medical conditions, can also contribute to this condition. Therefore, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to obtain a proper diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan to address the underlying causes and restore nail health.
Splitting Nails: A Sign of Vitamin Deficiency
An essential vitamin for nail health is biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H. Biotin intervenes in the metabolism of amino acids and fats, and plays a key role in the synthesis of keratin, the protein thatcomposes our nails. A lack of biotin can cause fine and brittle nails, prone from it. Although biotin deficiency is rare, some factors such as pregnancy, malnutrition and certain medications can increase the risk of inadequate levels of biotin.
“The appearance of the nails can often provide valuable clues about the general health of a person. Party and brittle nails can indicate a vitamin deficiency, and it is important to address this underlying problem to prevent major damage.”
In addition to biotin, the lack of other vitamins, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, can also contribute to the nails. Vitamin C intervenes in collagen synthesis, which gives strength and integrity to nails, while vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and helps protect the nail cells from oxidative damage. Low levels of vitamin C or vitamin E can weaken the nails and make them more likely to be and break.
- Include more foods rich in biotin in your diet, such as eggs, nuts, whole grains and green leafy vegetables.
- Consume foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus, berries and peppers, to strengthen nails.
- Incorporate foods rich in vitamin E to your meals, such as avocados, almonds and sunflower pipes.
Understanding the Structure of Nails
The nail structure: To understand the causes of the nails split due to lack of vitamins, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the basic nail anatomy. The nails can be divided into several different parts, each of which fulfills a specific function:
- Nail plate: It is the hard and visible part of the nail that covers the nail bed. It is formed by dense keratin fibers and is responsible for giving the nail its resistance and durability.
- Nail bed: the nail bed is the soft tissue located under the nail sheet. It provides nutrition and support for the growth of the nail.
- Nail matrix: located at the base of the nail, the nail matrix is responsible for the production of new cells that contribute to the growth of the nail. It contains blood vessels and nerves that provide essential nutrients to the nail sheet.
- Cuticle: The cuticle is a thin layer of skin that overlaps the base of the nail sheet. It acts as a barrier, preventing the entry of bacteria and other harmful substances.
Did you know? The average nail growth rate is approximately 0. 1 millimeters per day, which means that a nail takes about 6 months to grow completely from the matrix to the free edge.
Understanding the structure and function of the nails is crucial to identify the possible causes of nail problems such as cracks. In the case of vitamin deficiencies, the lack of essential nutrients can alter adequate growth and development of nails, causing problems such as fragility and cracks.
Causes of Splitting Nails
Lack of vitamins: the lack of certain vitamins and minerals can affect the health and strength of our nails. Specifically, the deficiencies of biotin (vitamin B7), iron, zinc and vitamin C have been related to the breakage of the nails. Biotin is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the maintenance of the structure and integrity of our nails. Insufficient biotin levels can cause brittle and weak nails, prone from it. Similarly, iron and zinc deficiencies can cause nail anomalies, including breakage. In addition, the lack of vitamin C can affect the production of collagen, essential for healthy nail growth.
Inadequate intake or poor absorption of these vitamins can contribute to the appearance of nails. Certain medical conditions, such as bad absorption disorders or gastrointestinal operations, can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb these nutrients, causing deficiencies and nail problems.
In addition to vitamin deficiencies, there are other factors that can contribute to the appearance of open nails. Among them are included:
- Prolonged exposure to water or aggressive chemicals can weaken the nails and make them more likely to start.
- Excessive use of enamels and removal can strip the nails of their natural oils and cause dryness and fragility.
- Trauma or repeated nail injuries, such as excessively typing or biting the nails, can damage and split them.
To determine the exact cause of the nails, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. This can evaluate its general state of health, its nutritional status and any underlying medical condition that may be contributing to the problem. Addressing the underlying cause, such as correcting nutritional deficiencies or modifying habits, can help improve the health and appearance of the nails.
Common vitamin deficiencies associated with games
1. Biotin deficiency: Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, plays a crucial role in the maintenance of the health of our hair, skin and nails. A biotin deficiency can cause weak and brittle nails, causing them to get easily. Including foods rich in biotin in the diet, such as eggs, nuts and whole grains, can help overcome this deficiency and promote healthier nails.
“A biotin deficiency can cause weak and brittle nails, causing them to get easily.”
2. Vitamin C deficiency: Vitamin C is not only known for its immune reinforcement properties, but also plays an important role in collagen synthesis, which is essential to maintain the strength and health of the nails. Insufficient vitamin C levels can weaken and split the nails. Including foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus, berries and green leafy vegetables, can help fight this lack and improve nail health.
“An insufficient level of vitamin C can weaken and split the nails.”
| Vitamin | Nail impact | Food sources |
|---|---|---|
| Biotin (vitamin B7) | Weakness and fragility |
|
| Vitamin C | Weakness and fragility |
|
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Party nails, also known as onicoschizia, can manifest in various ways based on gravity and the underlying cause. The nails may seem brittle, thin or weak, and can be easily peeled or broken. This condition usually causes pain or discomfort, especially when performing tasks that require manual skill.
Symptoms:
To accurately diagnose the nails, it is important to pay attention to specific symptoms. These may include
- Frequent nail breakage or division along the edge of the nail
- Nail thinning
- Nail timing
- Nail discoloration
- Pain or sensitivity around the nail
It should be noted that these symptoms can also indicate other nail disorders or a combination of factors, so an adequate diagnosis is crucial to guarantee effective treatment.
Diagnosis:
When there are symptoms of nail games, it is advisable to go to a dermatologist or a healthcare professional specialized in nail disorders. The diagnostic process may imply a thorough examination of the nails and a detailed evaluation of the medical history. Laboratory tests can also be requested, such as blood tests, to identify possible underlying deficiencies or medical conditions that contribute to nail division.
Note: Although split nails may be associated with vitamin deficiencies, it is essential to undergo a thorough evaluation to rule out other possible causes, such as fungal infections, hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, or even certain medications.
The use of tables can also be useful to record and compare the results of diagnostic tests, indicating the levels of various vitamins, minerals and other relevant markers. However, it is essential to consult a medical professional to accurately interpret the results and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment and Prevention of Splitting Nails
One of the most important measures to treat and prevent split nails is to eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Foods rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, biotin and iron should be incorporated into daily meals. This can include foods like carrots, spinach, oranges, strawberries, almonds, and lentils. Additionally, taking supplements containing these essential vitamins and minerals may be beneficial in treating deficiencies.
- Hydration: Keeping your nails hydrated and moisturized is crucial to prevent them from splitting. Regularly apply a nourishing nail oil or moisturizer to your nails and cuticles to retain moisture and improve flexibility.
- Gentle nail care: Avoiding harsh chemicals and practices is important to prevent further damage and breakage. Use gentle nail care products and opt for acetone-free nail polish removers. It is also advisable to avoid excessive filing or polishing of your nails, as this can weaken them.
- Protective Measures: Wearing gloves when performing household tasks or activities that may expose your nails to excess moisture or chemicals can help safeguard them from further damage and breakage.
“Proper nutrition and hydration are key in the treatment and prevention of split nails. Be sure to eat a diet rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, biotin and iron, and regularly moisturize your nails and cuticles.”
In addition to these measures, it is also important to treat underlying health problems that may contribute to split nails. Conditions such as hypothyroidism or psoriasis can affect the health of your nails, so it is advisable to consult a health professional.
By applying these treatment and prevention strategies, people with split nails can achieve stronger, healthier nails and relieve the discomfort associated with this condition.
