For your nails to be healthy your diet should include a lot of fruits and raw vegetables so that they get the required vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Eat food that is rich in silicon like broccoli, fish and onions. Eat foods rich in biotins like whole grains. Drink plenty of water and other fruit juices. Food rich in zinc and vitamin B will strengthen your nails. Fresh carrot juice rich in calcium and phosphorous is perfect for strengthening nails. In addition remember the following things: * Lack of vitamin A and calcium in your body causes dryness and brittleness. * Lack of protein, folic acid and vitamin C causes hangnails. * White bands across the nails are a result of protein deficiency. * A lack of sufficient hydrochloric acid can cause splitting nails. * Lack of vitamin B12 can lead to dryness, very rounded and curved ends and darkening of nails.
Avoid contact with harsh soap & detergents which can cause nails to become dry & brittle. Wear rubber gloves when doing dishes. Apply hand creme whenever your hands feel dry.
-Never clip nails to shorten them. Use an emery board to file nails down to size. -Whenever possible apply a top coat almost daily to protect the nail tips. -Limit the use of nail polish removers. Do not use mo than once a week. Nail polish remover will dry your nails out.