New Delhi, October 22 (IANS). Our skin, hair and nails are the mirror of health. When the body is strong from within, the nails become shiny and strong. But as soon as there is a lack of nutrition in the body, the first effect is visible on the nails, they start breaking, peeling, or white spots start appearing on them. Both Ayurveda and science believe that if the body’s nutrition is not proper, then such signs are seen first.
According to Ayurveda, nails are the supporting elements of Asthidhatu (bones). When there is any obstruction in the nutrition process of Asthidhatu in the body, its effect becomes visible on the nails. This is why weak nails are not just an external problem but a sign of an internal disturbance. At the same time, according to modern medical science, nails are mainly made of a protein called keratin. The body needs special nutrients to produce and strengthen this protein. When these nutrients are deficient, the quality of nails begins to decline.
Due to lack of some nutrients, nails start breaking and becoming weak. One of these elements is biotin. Biotin, also known as Vitamin B7, is considered the most important nutrient for the strength of nails. It promotes the production of keratin in the body, which makes nails strong. When there is a deficiency of biotin in the body, the nails become thin, break quickly and start peeling.
The role of iron is in supplying oxygen to the body. When the amount of iron decreases, various parts of the body do not get the necessary oxygen and nutrition. This affects the nails in such a way that they start bending, which is called Koilonychia in medical language. Such nails also look weak and often break.
Zinc is also an important mineral, which helps in repairing nails. Due to its deficiency, white spots start appearing on the nails and gradually the quality of the nails deteriorates. Zinc deficiency also increases the risk of infection, which slows down the growth of nails.
Vitamin E and C also help in strengthening nails. These act as antioxidants, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Deficiency of Vitamin C affects the process of collagen formation in the body, which keeps the nails flexible and prevents wear and tear.
Ayurveda says that when the Agni i.e. digestive power of the body is weak then the food eaten is not digested properly and the body does not get the necessary nutrition. Its effect is first visible on hair and nails. Therefore, it is important to improve the digestive power of the body and take a diet rich in nutrients.
–IANS
PK/AS