Strong Healthy Nails the Natural Way

While some are blessed with naturally strong, fast growing nails, the rest of us often battle with dry, brittle nails that don't seem to grow at all. There are many products on the market that promise you ten "hard as nails" nails in a matter of weeks, however, some of the most effective ways to achieve great nails can be found right in your kitchen.

What is often easy to forget is that what we put in our bodies is more often than not reflected on our outside appearance. Oftentimes, brittle and slow growing nails are a sign that we are not getting the proper amounts of nutrients our body needs to regenerate itself on a daily basis. Some of the most important nutrients our bodies need in order to maintain or develop healthier, stronger nails are essential oils that are high in fatty acids and antioxidants such as the Omegas. Some of the best oils you can add to your diet are Cod liver oil, Salmon oil, Flaxseed oil, and Vitamin E. In conjunction with taking these oils on a daily basis, you can also use Almond or Jojoba oils to rub into your nails right before going to bed. With continued use you will notice that your nails will start to grow faster and stronger.

Other nutrients that are essential for healthy nails are Calcium, Keratin, Biotin, and Vitamins A and D. If your diet does not naturally include these nutrients, you can easily find them in supplement form at your local health food store. Keratin is particularly important to add to your diet if you have thin, brittle nails, as nails are actually made from layers of Keratin which is a protein.

It is important to remember that using supplements that are derived from whole foods rather then chemically based ones are always best and will be more readily absorbed by your body. Natural gelatin supplements are also wonderful to add to your diet in order to strengthen your nails. Gelatin is known to increase nail thickness and also works wonders for your hair. A diet high in healthy proteins such as lean meats and nuts is also very important to add to the integrity of your nails.

Facilitating the growth of your nails is easier then you think. Making sure that you are eating foods high in protein and essential nutrients as well as adding supplements to your diet that will aid in your nail growth will dramatically change the appearance of your nails without the use of chemicals or snake-oil products. It really is that simple!