Treating Nail Problem with Supplements: Tips to Prevent Brittle Nails and Manage Hangnails at Home

Healthy and pink nails are considered as a sign of good health in Chinese and Indian medicine. Nails are also considered as a sign of beauty however nail problems like fungal infections and brittle nails result in unsightly nails which affects one in 25 people. Swiss researchers reported that an average intake of 2500mcg of biotin each day can help increase the thickness and texture of nails by almost 25%. Nutritional deficiencies are commonly responsible for nail problems, which can be effectively managed by using dietary supplements.

Nails are indicative of
health

Causes of Nail problems: Anatomy of a Nail

 Nails are made up of a protein referred to as ‘Keratin’ which is makes the nails one of the strongest tissues in the body. However nail problems like brittle nails, fungal infections or cracked nails are observed in several individuals and are commonly attributed to,

• Nutritional deficiency primarily of Vitamin B complex and Vitamin C can result in nail problems including hangnails and brittle nails


• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders like Asthma and Emphysema may also result in bluish discoloration of the nails and make them weak and brittle. Bluish Discoloration is also indicative of heart disorder


• Recurrent exposure to harsh chemicals can also impact the nails making them dry and brittle


• Fungal infections, especially in the toenails can result in athlete’s foot which may result in nail troubles. 

Supplements to Treat Nail Problems: Treating Brittle Nails Naturally

Various supplements help overcome the nutritional deficiencies and contribute to stronger nails in general. An eight week therapy regimen would help improve the nail condition and treat brittle nails,








Biotin is essential for
Healthy Nails



• Biotin along with amino acid complex works in synergy and helps the building of keratin and other proteins that help in making the nails strong. 600 mcg of biotin twice a day helps strengthen the nails along with one pill of amino-acid complex twice a day.


• Vitamin E helps in improving the texture of the nail tissue while Vitamin C enhances the effect of Vitamin E and biotin. 500 IU of Vitamin E with 1000 mg of Vitamin C thrice a day is beneficial


• Calcium and Magnesium forms an integral part of the exoskeleton and improve the thickness of the nails. 600 mg calcium and 250 mg of magnesium once a day helps improve nail texture


• Vitamin B complex comprising of 150 mcg of Vitamin B12 and 400 mcg of folic acid are essential in enhancing immunity and aid in the management of nail bed infections. 

Tips to Prevent Nail Problem: Managing Hangnails at Home

Here are some simple tips that would help in managing nail problem and manage hangnails and brittle nails,

• Head to head study has shown that tea tree oil was equally potent as the most popular antifungal (clotrimazole) and is effective in more than 60% of cases of fungal infection.


• Avoid trimming cuticles. Cuticles protect the nails from bacteria and fungal infection and also responsible for a shinny and healthy texture


• Wear gloves while doing household chores like washing utensils. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals.


• Apply petroleum jelly or Aloe Vera on the hands and nails, especially after your hand has been in water for long period of time.


• Always keep your nail short, since long nails are at a greater risk of breaking easily. Always trim your nails after a bath or soak your nails prior to trimming to prevent splitting of the nails.

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Health Benefits of Lecithin: Improves Concentration, Memory, Heart and Liver Detox

Lecithin supplements are being prescribed by numerous nutritionists and health care experts. Lecithin exerts remarkable health benefits and is particularly important for the liver and nerves.

What is Lecithin?: Lecithin Benefits

Lecithin is a fatty substance found in animal and plant based foods, such as: eggs, liver, soy, wheat germ and peanuts. Our body manufactures lecithin as well. Certain processed food products like ice cream, chocolate, margarine, make use of lecithin too etc.

Lecithin is an excellent source of choline (vitamin B), in the form of phosphatidylcholine. In the body, phosphatidylcholine breaks down in to choline.

The health benefits of lecithin are:

• Aids in liver functioning


• Prevents gall stones from occurring


• Relives heart burn and acidity


• Boosts memory power








Chocolate contains
Lecithin

• Protects the heart

Soybean Lecithin or Soya Lecithin

Soybean is a wonderful source of plant based lecithin. When you take soy lecithin, your body obtains choline from it. Lecithin and choline play a vital role in governing the functioning of every cell in your body. Soybean, tofu, soy milk, soy curd, miso, etc., will provide you lecithin in abundance.

Lecithin and Cholesterol : Lecithin for the Heart

Lecithin found in most plant sources help lower serum cholesterol levels appreciably. Lecithin decreases LDL (low density lipoprotein) and VLDL (very low density lipoprotein) and maintains normal levels of HDL (high density lipoprotein). Thus, lecithin supplementation can ward off cardiovascular disorders successfully.

How to Improve Memory? Enhance Memory with Lecithin Supplements

Lecithin is a powerful nerve building nutrient that greatly improves memory. Lecithin is used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, managing twitches and jerks and preventing neural tube defects.

 Lecithin rich foods, consumed on a regular basis, keep your mind agile and active, enhance memory considerably, boost concentration levels and stave off degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Lecithin improves Liver
and Digestive Functions

Liver Detoxification with Lecithin: Improving Liver Function

Lecithin is particularly useful I treating gall bladder and liver disorders. Lecithin is a key component of bile; and low levels of lecithin trigger gall stone formation. Taking lecithin supplements can prevent and treat gall stone successfully.

Lecithin is often called a liver strengthening nutrient. It prevents build up of fats within the liver, improves flow of fats and cholesterol through the liver and gall bladder and helps the liver in the process of detoxification. Hepatitis, cirrhosis and gall stones are effectively treated with lecithin supplementation.

Lecithin Granules and Lecithin Dosage: Lecithin Side Effects

• Lecithin is available in the form of granules, which need to be taken with meals to enhance absorption. The dose is 1 teaspoon of the granules, twice daily. The nutrient is also available in the form of capsules (2 capsules to be taken daily), or tablets or liquid.


• Granular lecithin has a nutty taste and can be sprinkles over food or added to drinks.


• High doses cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating and sweating.

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Uses of Iodine and Natural Sources: RDI and Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency

Iodine is a vital mineral, which is crucial for ensuring normal functioning of the thyroid gland. As per a study conducted by UNICEF researchers, it was observed that the average IQ of children deficient in Iodine is about 13 points below the average IO of children with adequate supply of dietary iodine. Iodine deficiency is a relatively rare phenomenon in the developed world; estimates suggest that approximately 1.6 billion people suffer from some from of iodine deficiency, especially in the developing countries. The soil in the coastal areas is rich in iodine which is absorbed by the vegetables and fruits grown in the soil and hence most of the times, iodine deficiency is observed in hilly terrains.

Iodized Salt is best source
of Iodine

Functions of Iodine: Iodine Uses

Iodine is known for its effect on the ensuring proper functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is the principal gland of the body and controls a wide range of functions include metabolism of carbohydrates and fats and also controls and regulates the functions of other endocrinal glands in the body. Though iodine is primarily known for its effect on the thyroid gland, it also performs other functions.

1. It plays a crucial role in management of cyclic breast disorder or cyclic mastalgia, a condition characterized by lumpy and tender breasts associated with sensation of heaviness and pain, which is mostly observed just prior to menses/periods
2. Iodine is also famous for its use as a tropical anti-septic and is very beneficial in management of superficial cuts, bruises and burns. Local application of iodine prevents secondary infection and also hastens healing. 

Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) for Iodine: Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency

Recommended dietary intake for iodine is about 150 mcg daily for adult men and 120 mcg daily for adult females. One table spoon of iodized salt (salt fortified with iodine) is adequate to meet the body’s iodine requirement. Some of the symptoms associated with Iodine deficiency include,

Primarily, iodine deficiency results in the enlargement of the thyroid gland and may result in formation of goiter, which is seen as a lump in the neck, just above the Adam’s apple.

1. Fatigue, tiredness  and generalized weakness
2. Sluggishness with delayed reflexes
3. Dry and cracked skin
4. Hoarseness of voice
5. Constipation
6. Elevated levels of triglycerides in the blood



Goiter is observed Hypothyroid
and Hyperthyroid

7. Some degree of reduced mental functions and impairment. 

Excess of Iodine Risk: Important Natural Food sources of Dietary Iodine

The human body contains about 20-50 grams of iodine and almost about 75% of it is stored in the thyroid gland.  Iodine excess is rare and there is very little risk of iodine overdose even if the intake level is twenty times higher than RDI. However at extremely high levels (i.e. above 30 times the RDI), there is a risk of experiences certain iodine toxicity symptoms which include,

1. Mouth sores and mouth ulcers, with swelling of the salivary glands and Metallic taste in the mouth
2. Gastro intestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea
3. Breathlessness or difficulty in breathing easily
4. Acne
5. Mild to Moderate Headaches

Ironically, excess levels of iodine are also associated with enlargement of the thyroid gland and mimic the presentation of a goiter. Iodized salt is the best source of iron, since the salt is specifically fortified to provide essential supplies of iodine to the body. The other sources of iodine include sea food and fish. The richest natural source of iodine is kelp and wakame, both of which are seaweeds and have relatively low levels of contamination.

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Iron for Health: Treating Anemia with Supplements and Natural Sources of Iron

Surprisingly, Iron deficiency is not that uncommon even in developed countries. As per an estimate about nine percent of adolescent girls and eleven percent of females over the age of fifty years in Australia and New Zealand suffer from iron deficiency. The incidence of iron deficiency in developing countries in the Asian and African continent is as high as 40%among females in the reproductive age group.  Iron plays a crucial role in physical endurance and overall health.

Iron for Good Health: Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron is an integral part of hemoglobin, a component of red blood corpuscles, which determines the oxygen carrying ability of the blood. Iron is also a part of myoglobin, which is responsible for supplying oxygen to the muscles.  

Fatigue is more
often associated
with Iron deficiency

Food is the primary source of iron for human body and poor nutrition, excessive internal bleeding due to cancer or stomach ulcer or due to some type of cancer may result in iron deficiency. Though the initial symptoms associated with the condition are fairly limited, prolonged inadequacy of iron may result in the following symptoms,

• Weakness and Fatigue which may result in decreased ability to perform strenuous or even routine activities. Constant feeling of tiredness is a critical symptom of iron deficiency anemia 
• Breathlessness and shortness of breath on the slightest excretion
• Palpitations or increased consciousness of one’s heart beat along with profuse perspiration is also indicative of iron deficiency
•  Increased susceptibility to infections can make the individual prone to develop secondary infections like toenail fungus or hangnails
• Menstrual irregularities are observed among females. Severe iron deficiency is associated with amenorrhea or complete lack of menses.

Paleness, pallor and white coating on the tongue are some of the signs which are indicative of anemia and iron deficiency.

Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) for Iron: Iron Toxicity and Guidelines for using of Supplements

The Recommended Dietary Allowance of Iron is about 12-16 mg per day in women during their reproductive age and falls to 5-7 mg per day after menopause. The RDI for adult men is 7 mg per day. The RDI for pregnant and lactating women is slightly higher than the regular recommended requirement due to increased demand of the growing child.

However it is always recommended to consult your physician before taking iron supplements as excess of iron can be detrimental to health. Studies have linked excess of iron and iron toxicity with increased risk of dev eloping chronic disease including heart disease and colon cancer.

It is advised that extra iron is not required unless a person suffers from iron deficiency.

• Iron is best absorbed on empty stomach; however iron supplements on empty stomach may result in gastric upset and increase the risk of gastro-esophageal reflux disease.
• Iron tends to interfere with the action of antibiotics and certain other medications. Always inform your doctor about the supplements that you take.
• Never take iron supplements for more than six months without getting your blood hemoglobin evaluated. Six months are adequate to replenish the deficiency of iron.



Red Wine improves
Iron Absorption

• Never take iron supplements without doctor’s advice. Some individuals suffer from a disease called hemochromatosis, which is an inherited disorder in which an individuals body absorbs too much of iron

Natural Sources of Iron: Iron Supplements for Anemia

Non Vegetarian diet and animal sources of iron including liver, beef and lamb are best sources of iron. Unfortunately Vegetarian diet has limited sources of iron and is absorbed less actively. However, including 500 mg of Vitamin C in your diet can double the absorption of iron from vegetarian sources. Some of the vegetarian sources of Iron include,

·         Vegetables like eggplant and cabbage, beans and peas

·         Dried fruits like apricots and raisins

·         Kelp, blackstrap molasses and Wheat bran are also good sources of iron

·         Pumpkin seeds, squash seeds and sunflower seeds are also some of the natural sources of iron

·         Brewer’s Yeast and Red wine are also other sources that allow easy absorption of iron

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Vitamin A for Skin, Eyes and Immunity: Preventing Vitamin A Toxicity

Recent studies in Australia have shown that 25000 IU of Vitamin A prompts the ability of insulin to control blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. However, with a Required Dietary Intake of 2500 IU, Vitamin A overdose is associated with serious diseases including liver cirrhosis. Scientists are working towards exploring safer Vitamin A derivatives which are effective and can be prescribed in higher doses.

What is Vitamin A?

Chemical Structure of
Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat soluble nutrient which is stored in the liver. Vitamin A is present in the body in various chemical forms called retinoids.

Though the role of Vitamin A in preventing night blindness and cataract are well known, Vitamin A was used in early 1940s to treat a host of skin disorders including acne, pimples and psoriasis. However due to the high risk of toxicity associated with high dosage of Vitamin A, this was discontinued. Currently Retinoic acid, a vitamin A derivate and a prescription drug, is used for treatment of acne and a host of other skin conditions.

Major Benefits of Vitamin A: Vitamin A for Skin, Eyes and Immunity

The role of Vitamin A in enhancing health has been explicit. Vitamin A benefits humans in more than one way,

• Vitamin A is known for its ability to maintain vision and fight conditions like night blindness. This Vitamin is a key constituent of the chemicals found in the retina, which are essential for a normal vision.  In addition Vitamin A helps the eye adjust to changes in the intensity of light. Vitamin A is effective in management of dry eye complains.
• Vitamin A is considered beneficial in treatment of skin problems. The nutrient promotes healing of wounds, burns and ulcers. Its role in improving conditions like dry skin, eczema, psoriasis and rasacea has been proven time and again.



Animal Liver is packed
with Vitamin A

• Vitamin A is crucial in enhancing immunity of the body. Vitamin A is vital to fight common infections like common cold, flu and other types of upper respiratory tract infections.  Studies have shown that Vitamin A is effective in repairing lung tissue and reducing the attacks of auto-immune disorders like Asthma.  The role of this Vitamin in management of irritable bowel disease and gastric ulcers is noteworthy, due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Vitamin A Toxicity: Natural Sources of Vitamin A

• Vitamin A toxicity can manifest in the form of generalized weakness and vomiting.
• Consistently high levels of the vitamin are associated with liver cirrhosis.
• In addition other symptoms associated with Vitamin A toxicity include hair fall, brittle nails, bleeding gums, fatigue, nausea and irritability
• Vitamin A intake in pregnant females should be limited. Studies have shown that consuming more than 2500 IU of Vitamin A each day is closely linked with birth defects in the infant.

Normal vegetarian diet comprising of carotenoid rich vegetables and fruits rarely result in Vitamin A toxicity. However inclusion of too much liver or oily fish may occasionally result in an overdose. It should be noted that a mere 125 grams of polar bear liver can provide as much as 2 million IU of Vitamin A, a situation that can result in acute toxicity.

Some of the natural sources of Vitamin A include egg yolks, organ meat such as liver (which provides Vitamin A in high concentration), Apple, green leafy vegetables, mango, tomatoes, prunes are some of the rich sources of Vitamin A.

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Role of Vitamin C in Enhancing Health: Natural Sources of Ascorbic Acid and Precautions for Supplements

A study conducted on 119 patients who had undergone angioplasty, it was observed that Vitamin C was beneficial in preventing reblockage of arteries. Among the case group, who took 500 mg of Vitamin C each day for four months, 24% suffered from restenosis, compared to 43% in the control group. This study pointed towards the role of Vitamin C in preventing myocardial infraction and heart attacks.

Chemical Structure of
Ascorbic Acid

What is Vitamin C and Ascorbic Acid?

Vitamin C was initially known for it roles as early as the 17^th Century, for prevention of scurvy, a condition that affected long distance sailors. Identified as one of the key components of Lemon juice, Vitamin C was referred to as Ascorbic acid due to its antiscorbutic (anti-scurvy property).

Vitamin C or Ascorbic Acid is a primary water soluble anti-oxidant, which is effective in preventing damage caused due to unstable oxygen molecules, often referred to as free radicals. Recent studies have focused on these properties of Vitamin C in protecting cells from free radical damage

Benefits of Vitamin C: Role of Ascorbic Acid in enhancing Health

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin and plays a crucial role in healthy and disease free life. Here are some of the essential benefits that the vitamin offers to the human body,

1.    Ascorbic Acid plays a crucial role in enhancing immunity. Its role in minimizing the symptoms associated with common cold and its ability to shorten the duration of the illness are profound.

2.    It hastens the healing of wounds

3.    Its role in promoting healthy gums is noteworthy

4.    Ascorbic Acid has been found effective in treating chronic conditions like asthma and cataract

5.    Recent studies have also found Vitamin C to play a crucial role in preventing certain cancers and cardiac disease.

Precautions while Using Artificial Supplements of Vitamin C

The profound benefits that the Vitamin offers has resulted in increased use of artificial supplements available in the form of tablets and capsules. However there are certain precautions that need to be followed,

1. Don’t consume more than 500 mg of Vitamin C. Vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron and can poise a health threat for individuals with kidney disorders and haemochromatosis ( a genetic tendency to store iron)
2. Vitamin C can alter or distort the findings of medical tests conducted for diabetes, hemoglobin and colon cancer. Hence inform your doctor about your consumption of the supplement
3.  Excess of Vitamin C is linked with symptoms like diarrhea, flatulence and gassy stomach. Also dosage in excess of 2000 mg per day can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb trace minerals, which in turn can have other detrimental effects

Oranges are a great
source of Vitamin C

Natural Sources of Vitamin C: RDI for Ascorbic Acid

The Required Dietary Intake (RDI) of Vitamin C is about 40 mg per day in adult males and 30 mg per day in adult females. The RDI for smokers is twice the normal RDI, due to the increase demand for anti-oxidants

Using natural sources of Vitamin C is always safer and more beneficial compared to using supplements. The natural sources of Vitamin C include Citrus fruits and juices, broccoli, dark green vegetables, Kiwifruit, strawberries and red capsicums.

A glass of 250 ml of freshly squeezed orange juice can provide up to 125 mg of Vitamin C, which is approximately 3 times the normal RDI for the vitamin.

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