These symptoms seen in nails indicate lack of nutrition in the body. This is how to overcome it.
- bySherya
- 04 Jul, 2025

When there is a deficiency of essential nutrients in the body, its initial symptoms often start appearing in the nails. In such a situation, ignoring these signs can be very harmful for your health. Let us know what these symptoms are and how to overcome the deficiency of essential nutrients.

Symptoms of Lack of nutrition in the body: Balanced nutrition is most important for a healthy body and a good immune system. When the body does not get the necessary vitamins, minerals, proteins and other nutrients in the right amount, then its direct effect is seen on our health. Nails, skin and hair are the first to show this deficiency. Nutrition is necessary to give energy to the body, repair tissues, maintain hormonal balance and fight infection. Especially elements like vitamin B12, iron, biotin, vitamin D and zinc are necessary for the functioning of the body. Their deficiency can make the nails weak and abnormal. Therefore, changes in the nails should not be taken lightly, it should be understood that this can be a sign of lack of nutrition in the body.
When there is a deficiency of essential nutrients in the body, its initial symptoms are often seen in the nails. Nails turning yellow or white, weakening and breaking, lines forming on the surface, cracking from the edges or pits in the nails, all these can be signs of nutritional deficiency. Biotin deficiency can make nails thin and weak, while iron deficiency can cause nails to appear spoon-like, which is called koilonychia. Vitamin B12 deficiency can make nails brittle and also affect the skin. If such symptoms are visible, then it can be a sign that there may be anemia, thyroid imbalance or liver related problems in the body. In such a situation, timely examination and proper nutrition are very important.
How to overcome nutritional deficiency?
Dr Ajit Kumar of the Medicine Department at Delhi's GTB Hospital explains that to avoid nutritional deficiency, it is most important that all types of nutrients are present in your diet. In such a situation, include things like green leafy vegetables, pulses, fruits, dry fruits, eggs, milk, curd, fish and grains in your diet. Consumption of spinach, beetroot, pomegranate and jaggery is beneficial for iron, while egg yolk, peanuts and walnuts are good options for biotin.
To fulfill the requirement of Vitamin B12 and D, it is necessary to consume milk, curd, cheese and sunlight. If you are not getting enough nutrition from the diet, then multivitamins or other supplements can also be taken on the advice of the doctor. Also, drink sufficient amount of water to digest and absorb food properly and stay away from junk food, smoking and alcohol.
keep these things in mind
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast.
Keep protein, fiber and vitamins balanced in every meal.
Eat fresh fruits and green vegetables daily.
Avoid processed and fast foods.
Stay away from stress and get enough sleep.
Get your blood test done from time to time.
Take any supplement only after consulting a doctor.