Every part of our body acts as an indicator. Just as eyes reflect fatigue or weakness, nails also mirror our health. If lines, streaks, or bands are appearing on your nails, ignoring them could be a mistake. These lines could be a warning sign of underlying nutrient deficiencies or a serious illness. Let's understand why lines appear on nails and what the possible causes might be.
Why Does Nail Texture Matter?
Nails are made of a protein called keratin. When the body lacks proper nutrition, its direct effect becomes visible on the nails. Lines, cracks, discoloration, or breakage of nails—all these can indicate that something is amiss within the body.
Vertical Lines: Age or Nutritional Deficiency?
If you have faint vertical lines on your nails, it may generally indicate aging. As we age, the moisture and nutrition in the skin and nails decline, causing these lines to appear. However, if these lines become very deep or are accompanied by nail breakage, it could indicate a deficiency in magnesium, iron, or vitamin B12.
Solution:
- Maintain a balanced diet including green vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds.
- Increase your intake of foods rich in Vitamin B complex and iron, such as beetroot, spinach, and figs.
Horizontal Lines or Beau's Lines: A Sign of Stress or Illness
If horizontal lines running from edge to edge are appearing on your nails, it could indicate illnesses or excessive stress. These are known as 'Beau's Lines'. These lines form when a part of the body is undergoing an infection, fever, dehydration, or significant physical exhaustion.
Possible Causes:
- Viral fever or dengue
- Chemotherapy
- Diabetes or thyroid problems
- Malnutrition or severe mental stress
Solution:
- Get regular health checkups.
- Practice yoga, meditation, and stress management daily.
- Ensure sufficient intake of zinc, protein, and iron.
White Lines or Bands: Leukonychia and its Causes
Thin white lines appearing on nails are sometimes caused by minor injuries or microtrauma, but frequent occurrence can also be a sign of zinc deficiency. Medically, this is known as Leukonychia striata. If the lines are moving upwards with nail growth, there's no cause for concern, but if they are stationary or appear as bands, it could indicate toxins in the body or a kidney-related disease.
Solution:
- Consume zinc-rich foods such as pumpkin seeds, lentils, peanuts, and yogurt.
- Consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Black or Brown Lines: Serious Health Indicators
If a black, dark brown, or blue line is appearing on your nails, it is not normal. This is called melanonychia. It occurs due to the overproduction of the pigment melanin. Sometimes, it can also be a sign of skin cancer (melanoma), especially if it's on only one nail and is spreading.
Other Causes:
- Fungal infection
- Effects of medications
- Injury or trauma to the skin
Solution:
- Contact a doctor or dermatologist immediately.
- Eat foods rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Avoid repeatedly injuring your nails.
Dryness, Cracking, and Easy Breakage of Nails
If nails have become dry, break easily, or appear weak, it could indicate dehydration, biotin deficiency, or hypothyroidism. Additionally, constant exposure to detergents or chemicals can also damage nails.
Solution:
- Take biotin supplements or consume foods like eggs, peanuts, and bananas.
- Use coconut oil or almond oil to moisturize your nails.
- Wear gloves while doing household chores.
When to See a Doctor?
- If lines are increasing and changing color.
- If nails are bleeding or painful.
- If there is swelling or itching in the skin around the nails.
- If there is no improvement even after taking nutritional supplements for a long time.
Nails are not just a means of enhancing beauty, but they also indicate every change happening within your body. If you notice any lines, color changes, or textural changes on your nails, don't take it lightly. Through proper diet, adequate water intake, and a balanced lifestyle, you can not only achieve beautiful nails but also progress towards a healthier life.
