Many people feel that the quality of their fingernails is declining with numerous up-and-down ridges and splitting at the tips. Researchers now have made attempts to predict a person’s health from the condition of their nails.

Some of the changes in nails may be good indicators of health problems. Length wise nail ridging is a normal indicator of aging. The appearance and slow growth of the fingernails and toenails change as we grow older. With the age some nails start showing a yellowed or dull and brittle nature. In some cases the nails may develop tiny longitudinal ridges as well. Aging cause thinning and fragility in finger nails. It causes thickening and hardening in the toenails also.

There is no particular age for changes to occur in the nails. It is not necessary also that the fingernails will be changed with age. Brittleness however, is more common among women. Almost 27% of the women have brittle nails. Separation of nails in to thin layers at the tips is common. This separation is like peeling of an onion. Experts call this condition as “Onychoschizia“.

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The skin is the largest organ in our body. Just like any other organs in our body the skin also requires appropriate nutrition for functioning properly. If you are deficient in vitamins it may result in lifeless, dull and blotchy skin. Many people lack those vitamins and minerals, which are essential for the proper functioning of our body. However, it is to be noted that too much of minerals or vitamins can be extremely dangerous and toxic.

What are the various vitamins required for a healthy skin?

The vitamins that are essential for a healthy skin are

Vitamin A with carotenoids

Vitamin A prevents acne and makes the protective tissue of the skin stronger. It also helps in reducing production of the sebum. Vitamin A is necessary for the repair and maintenance of the tissue that makes the mucous membranes and the skin. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant for flushing out the free radicals and toxins from our body. In fact vitamin A deficiency can cause acne. The Suggested dosage for fighting acne is 10,000IU. The dosage intake should not exceed 5000 IU if you are pregnant.

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