Brittle nails and cracked heels
Brittle nails that split easily, vertical ridges on the nails and/or "spoon" nails (nails that have a concave-shaped appearance) may occur as a result of iron deficiency. Or it may be that you are low in calcium or silica which can also produce very dry and brittle nails. If you have white flecks on your nails, this often indicates a zinc deficiency.I suggest that if you follow a healthy diet of meat, fish, eggs, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, oils and vegetables. This should amend any dietary deficiencies. If after a month, you feel your nails are still brittle take Active Elements 2.1 which contain silica and calcium fluoride.
Do the mineral appraisal on my website (under the about section).
Alternatively, those who take the supplement glucosamine sulphate notice an increase in the rate of growth and strength (toughness) of their nails.
If you have a family history of thyroid disease, it may be wise to get a blood test as nails can become brittle with an overactive or underactive thyroid gland.
If you are still not sure, see your registered natural practitioner or doctor.
A. Having grown up in Taupo, I have to say pumice is the best. Pumice is a light, volcanic rock scattered on the beaches of Lake Taupo, it is sold nationwide in chemists. In the shower, rub the pumice over the cracked heels and it effectively removes the dead skin.
To treat within, the minerals silica and calcium fluoride are indicated for dry, cracked skin and will eliminate the problem. You can complete a mineral appraisal on this website (under the about section) to identify if this would be suitable for you.
Rough, cracked skin can result from a zinc deficiency.
To promote circulation to the feet, (and therefore more nutrients for the skin) incorporate herbs such as garlic, ginger, and spices into the diet, drink plenty of water ò€“ 8 glasses per day, and include cold pressed oils, nuts, seeds, fish and avocadoes to provide essential fatty acids.
Alpha- hydroxyl acid (AHA) cream has been found in studies to be superior than carrier creams for the treatment of dry skin. AHA creams alleviate the cause of skin dryness, rather than temporarily lubricating the skin. Benefits were seen after two weeks. Topical AHAs treatment increased skin hydration by 59%.
Urea creams are also sold for cracked heels, which improves the water binding capability of the skin by opening the layers of the epidermis and dermis for hydrogen bonding which then attracts moisture to the cells of the skin.