Although nails are not a living tissue, proper nutrition will enhance the way it looks, in addition to its proper health. To get this beneficial nutrition, proper diet plan is essential. There are in fact various food sources that provide nutrients your nails and cuticles need for faster nail growth. Consecutively, there are foods you should avoid in order to preserve your nail, cuticle, and entire body health.
Foods to take for faster nail growth
Foods containing biotin
Biotin is essential for hair and nail growth, and is absorbed to the nail core. Nail abnormalities can be a result of excessive biotin deficiency, if it is present with lack of muscle coordination and severe hair loss. Daily recommended dose is 30 to 40 grams, and can be derived from whole grains, bananas, and avocados. In addition to nail growth, biotin is also essential for hair growth and skin health.
Foods with vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidants, which aids nail natural glow and reduces inflammation inside the body. Sufficient amount of antioxidant will not only help faster nail growth, but also maintain its strength, so that cracked or chipped nails can be prevented. Foods loaded with sufficient vitamin C include oranges, berries, and tomatoes.
Foods containing proteins
Nail consists of keratin—a certain type of protein. Foods containing protein, such as eggs can promote gorgeous nail growth. Sufficient protein is also essential for nail strength. Eggs is recommended for promoting nail health, since it does not only contain protein, but also biotin. Chickens and lean red meats are also advised to be taken in moderation to make nails grow faster.
Foods with zinc
Zinc is important for healthy nails, since it helps synthesize protein, which is necessary for tissue growth. There are some effects of zinc deficiency, which can be visible through the nail plate, such as white spots underneath the nail plate and dented nail ridges. Zinc can be found in various food sources, such as oysters, poultry, nuts, legumes, and grains.
Foods rich in folic acids
Vitamin B, including folic acid or vitamin B9 is the best vitamin required for nail growth. There are foods loaded with folic acid, such as pomegranates, soy products, and cheese.
Other food tips for faster nail growth
In addition to nutrient fulfillment, there are some other tips you can pay attention to in order to promote faster nail growth. They are also essential in promoting strong nail plates which do not crack and split easily.
- Try to get the required nutrition from natural food sources. Although there are various food supplements containing biotin, vitamins, and mineral required for faster nail growth, prolonged consumption of these supplements is not advised, as side effects may present.
- Some nutrient sources are helpful for promoting nail growth if applied topically. Coconut and olive oil are the easiest examples. These two oils can be applied to your finger and toenails and left overnight for aiding faster nail growth.
- Water is nonetheless important for your nail health. Sufficient hydration will prevent nails from cracking and splitting, so that it may grow much faster. It is also essential for cuticle health and thus, prevents hang nails and over-drying cuticles. Drink 8 glasses of water or more every day to aid sufficient body hydration.
- Stop strict dieting, as it may inhibit your body from getting required substances for fast nail growth. if you notice your nails start to grow very slowly, it is important to consider taking food supplements aside from your daily food intakes. If you are on a vegetarian diet, proper review about your protein intake is essential, so that you can avoid protein deficiency that may weaken your nails and slow down its growth.
- Vitamin D intake also needs to be put into account regarding faster nail growth. Dairy products are enriched with vitamin D, which aids faster nail growth. Milk, cheese, and yoghurt can be taken regularly to fulfil your body needs. However, it is important to pay attention to your dairy intake, as excessive intake may trigger cholesterol issue and allergies to those who are lactose-intolerant.