why do my fingernails, especially thumb nails keep splitting and flaking, I eat a vegan diet,?

Question

I take omega 3 & 6 I am 65 ish, is this an age thing, or can it be rectified, I have tried all sorts of supplements, which brings improvement for a while and then the flaking and splitting starts again, my hair is also very slow growing, about 1/4 inch every 6 months !!!

Answer 1

The main sources of SELENIUM in the western diet are from animal products (liver etc.), but it is found in grains and seeds.

The problem with these is that most agricultural land has been depleted in many micro-nutrient minerals; selenium is one that is practically non-existent in arable soil, so most commercial grains are deficient in it.

If you are getting too little selenium, most of the other symptoms will be dismissed by the doctor as age-related, but the deficiency can make your nails split easily.

Organic seeds, like linseed (flax) and sesame, are more likely to contain a good dose of selenium, and some brands will tell you on the packaging that they contain it. You can get these from a health-food shop or organic grocery.

You can find out if you are deficient in selenium by buying a small quantity of supplement tablets; your nails will be visibly better in a month or two if the tablets solve the problem.

After that, it would be better to get your regular supply from grains & seeds, as part of an organic wholefood diet; you might benefit from taking the supplement in smaller or less frequent doses while you get used to the new dietary sources.

Answer 2

You need Calcium for bones and also your nails. Calcium is most often found in milk. I imagine you use Soya milk so try looking on the carton for mineral and vitamin content.

Protein is more muscle related and is found most often in red meats. You could try eating a lot of spinach. It worked for popeye and has been proven to be a kind of super-food!

However, vegan diets do tend to be less nutricious than others simply due to a reduced choice. Unfortunately I think age is the main problem. As stated before see a GP.
Best of luck.

Answer 3

Your diet is not providing the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs. I suggest you to balance out your diet and perhaps extent a bit more towards vegetarian. Allow yourself to eat more variety please.
Being a vegan does not mean you live longer.

Answer 4

Theres many things you are probably lacking but I know there are herbal supplements for skin hair and nails (if ur from the UK - go to boots) and they are a good and easy help.....

Answer 5

Sounds like old age coming on. You can buy nail products to help your nails, but hair growth slows as you get older.

Answer 6

You should try and drink lots of milk each day. Its very good for your bones, nails, etc... Especially young women should try and drink milk, it strengthens your bones and stops them been brittle in later life. This also applies to nails, it helps them to stay strong.

Answer 7

Fingernails and hair are made from protein. Unless you eat a lot of beans, get off your vege diet and eat some meat, girl!

Answer 8

Add calcium to yr diet either by food or by supplements.

Answer 9

You are lacking essential amino acids and iron in your foolish diet. Malnutrition may be the problem with your nails.

Answer 10

Best thing to do is to see your Dr. Only your Dr. will give you sound advice that is beneficial to your health.