Vitamin C for Healthy Nails

Also called ascorbic acid, vitamin C is perhaps one of the most well-known nutrients due to its cold-fighting properties.

This vitamin is essential in the production of collagen, helps stabilise mood, works as an antioxidant against pollutants, helps the body absorb vitamin E & iron and helps protect nails & nail beds from infection.

Vitamin C is also water soluble which means the body cannot store it, a continuous supply is essential for nail (& overall) health.

Luckily all fruits & vegetables contain the vitamin (although some of them have more than others) so getting an ample supply is not difficult.

Food Sources

There are so many yummy choices.

Animal Sources
Meat, poultry, clams & mussels.

Fruit & Veg Sources
Parsley, broccoli, bell peppers, strawberries, citrus fruits, papaya, cauliflower, kale, brussel sprouts, apples, banana, berries, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, kiwifruit, peaches, pears, pineapple, plums, pomegranate, watermelon, artichoke, beans (green or yellow), cabbage, spring onions, peas & potato skin.

Signs of Deficiency

Because this vitamin is so important to overall health, nail symptoms may not be the first noticed. Those lacking in this important nutrient will find their nails brittle & fragile, often with irritated cuticles & hangnails.

C For Healthy Nails

Vitamin C doesn’t have many animal sources so it’s important to eat your fruit & veg every day. The list of sources above is long & should offer at least one or two options you can work into your daily diet.

Be sure to take a look at some other important vitamins & minerals like Vitamins A & B.