Nail Your Health

Your nails aren’t just ornamental or useful for scratching. They can actually give you a picture of your health, and any issues your body might have. Sanjana Salunkhe tells you what to watch out for

- Sanjana Salunkhe

Most of us don’t give much thought to our nails beyond keeping them clean, filing them and getting manicures. Traditionally, these little covers of keratin have been associated with beauty or cleanliness rather than well-being. But your nails can give you an important glimpse of your overall health, literally at the tips of your fingers.

“Nails reflect your overall health, with regards to deficiency, nutrition, ageing or any chronic illness. Ignoring any signs you get from them can lead to serious issues. They are an important part of the human body and should be cared for as much as we do other parts of our body,” says Mini Sood Bannerjee, brand manager, Innisfree India.

WHY YOU SHOULD MAKE NAIL HEALTH A PRIORITY

You eat greens and follow a dedicated fitness routine to take care of your body and your health. You’re on the lookout for bloating, pain, aches, surprising weight gain or other factors that indicate the state of your well-being. Add checking your nails daily to that list.

Healthy nails are strong, evenly pinkish white, sans ridges, with smooth surfaces, and are free of any spots of discolouration. If your nails have any of the above issues consistently, you should consult your doctor because your body is sending you warning signs.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

“When trying to figure any nail abnormalities, it is important to follow a thorough checklist,” advises Minash Bablani, founder, Ellement Co. We’ve listed the most glaring signals your body can send you through nail-post.

Discolouration: Yellow nails could be due to old age, smoking, turmeric, nail polish—or possibly infections in your liver or kidneys. In case of continued yellowing or any other kind of discolouration in your nail-bed, consult your doctor.