10 Foods You Should Eat for Stronger Nails

Many of us have a desire for strong, healthy and beautiful nails however it can be a battle to achieve this goal.

Our nails are an amazing part of our hands! Lets take a quick look at why:

• Strength: Nails strengthen our fingertips helping us grip and do everyday tasks.
• Protection: Nails are a barrier against bacteria and viruses entering our bodies which is why it is so important to keep them well maintained.
• Scratching: Fine motor skills like scratching, picking up small things and even turning pages are all jobs for our nails.
• Touch: Our nail beds have a network of nerves in them which all contribute to the sensation of touch.

Your nails are in indicator of not just personal presentation but overall physical health. Eating the right foods can take you nails from dry and brittle to healthy and strong.

In general lean protein, leafy greens, whole grains, nuts and beans will all help improve you nail health. The following is a good guide of what to consume;

1. Water. Staying hydrated delivers all the nutrients and oxygen to your cells. Your body can get water from hydrating foods too like fruits, yoghurt and soup.
2. Lean Meats. Chicken, fish, beef and pork are all excellent sources of protein. Our nails are made out of protein so this is the quickest way to get your nails growing strong.
3. Fruit (especially berries). Berries are high in antioxidants which help protect your cells against free radical damage. This is the damage that causes inflammation and stress hormones so having a sweet treat of berries is helping your whole body not just your fingertips.
4. Greens (especially dark leafy). Everyone knows how important it is to ‘eat your greens’ so I will spare you the lecture! The 3 key nutrients you get are iron, folate and calcium which will all help toughen your nails.
5. Tofu. This wonderfully versatile plant-based protein also provides zinc and omega-3’s which are great for strengthening your nails. Have it in some miso soup for the ultimate nail power drink.
6. Beer. Yes its true! Wheat based beer is rich in silicon which will strengthen your bones and ultimately your nails. Cheers to that!
7. Legumes and Beans. Perfect if you prefer a plant-based diet, legumes and beans are packed with biotin, zinc and iodine. These nail health powerhouses can accelerate growth and repair damage.
8. Avocadoes. Packed with healthy fats and vitamins, avocadoes will get you nails (and skin) glowing.
9. Eggs. However you like them, eggs are full of benefits for your nails. Biotin, vitamin D (one of the few dietary sources) and protein all help increase nail thickness and reduce splitting.
10. Nuts and seeds. Grab a handful of your favourites for a hit of healthy fats, fibre, protein, vitamins and antioxidants. Almonds are the hero for nails as they are packed with magnesium. Ridges on your nails? They may be a sign of inadequate magnesium.

Honourable mentions go to wholegrains, salmon and dairy products as additional sources for micronutrients, biotin and silicon that will all keep your fingertips in top health.

Now your nails are all beautiful and strong keep them protected with some gorgeous gel nail wraps from Spirit Fingerz!