Fed up with weak nails that break all the time? Discover the best foods to enjoy to get your nails as strong as…nails.  

Are you fed up with brittle, weak nails that never seem to grow? We have a solution for you.

Did you know that certain foods, such as collagen, oily fish, beans and carrots to your diet, work hard to nourish your body from the inside out and provide you with the beauty-boosting nutrients you need to achieve strong, healthy-looking nails? 

We asked wellbeing expert Charlotte Dormon what we need to eat and drink to improve the overall health and appearance of our nails. 

Strong nails are a sign of good health. If our nails are ridged, break constantly, or just don’t seem to grow very well, it can often indicate that our body may be lacking some essential nutrients. One of the most common nutrients that can cause our nails to weaken if we don’t have enough of it in our diet is collagen. 

As we age, our body’s natural collagen production decreases, leading to thinner, weaker nails. Studies have shown that supplementing with collagen can counteract this effect. Collagen is vital for maintaining and improving the health and quality of your nails. It provides structural support, retains moisture, enhances blood flow, and offers anti-ageing benefits. 

Collagen supplies our body with essential amino acids that are vital to aid in repair and growth. Incorporating collagen-rich foods or supplements into your diet can lead to stronger, healthier, and more beautiful nails. Regular supplementation with marine collagen has been shown to promote nail growth and improve the overall thickness of nails by fortifying the nail matrix. This results in nails that are not only longer but also denser and more resilient to daily wear and tear. 

How collagen can help your nails look naturally gorgeous. 

Structural Support: Collagen is the main structural protein in the extracellular matrix, which supports the shape and strength of nails. It provides the necessary framework for keratin, the protein that makes up nails, to build upon. Collagen helps reinforce the structure of nails, making them less prone to breakage.

Promotes Growth: Adequate collagen levels can promote healthier and faster nail growth.

Moisture Retention: Collagen helps maintain the moisture levels in your nails and the surrounding skin. Proper hydration is essential for preventing dryness and brittleness, common issues that can lead to nail damage. Well-hydrated nails are more flexible and less likely to split or break.

Healthy Cuticles: Moisturised cuticles create a better environment for nail growth.

Enhanced Blood Flow: Collagen supports the health of blood vessels and improves circulation. Good blood flow is vital for delivering essential nutrients to the nail matrix, the tissue under the nail that produces new cells. Improved circulation ensures that your nails receive the vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy. It also encourages faster healing, which can help in quicker recovery from nail damage. 

Thicker Nails: Increased collagen can lead to thicker, more resilient nails and help reduce the brittleness associated with ageing nails. Collagen is rich in amino acids like proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline, essential for keratin production. These amino acids are the building blocks for keratin, one of the biggest requirements for good nail health.

Repair and Growth: Regular collagen intake can help repair damaged nails and support the growth of new, healthy nails. By providing the necessary nutrients, collagen stimulates the growth of new nail cells.

Other foods and supplements that may help improve your nail health and appearance.  

Foods to add to your diet for beautiful nails

• Eggs: Rich in protein, biotin, and iron, eggs support nail structure and growth.
• Fish: Particularly fatty fish like salmon, which contains omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for nail health.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale provide iron, folate, and vitamins A and C, essential for nail strength.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds are excellent sources of magnesium, biotin, and vitamin E.
• Carrots: Carrots are high in vitamin A and are crucial for cell growth, including nail cells.
• Beans and Lentils: Packed with protein, iron, zinc, and biotin, supporting overall nail health.
• Bell Peppers: Contain vitamin C, which is important for collagen production and nail strength.

Vitamin supplements to consider  

• Vitamin C: Necessary for collagen production. It is found in citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers. 
• Iron: Prevents nail thinning and spoon-shaped nails. Available in red meat, spinach, and legumes.
• Zinc: Supports nail growth and repair. Found in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Keep nails moisturized. Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts. 

Fall in love with your nails this summer. Shop the Correxiko supplements to help support their strength and health.