Peeling and brittle nails are sometimes the result of poor diet. Other possible causes include thyroid disease, frequent exposure to dampness and overdoing manicures and harsh nail products. See your doctor to determine if your peeling nails indicate a serious condition. A nail polish with biotin may provide topical protection, and a well-balanced diet also keeps nails healthy. There are certain nutrients that are especially important for nail health.
Biotin
Biotin provides strength to nails, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The B-complex vitamin helps your body process amino acids, carbohydrates and fats more efficiently, resulting in more energy and in healthy nails, hair and skin. Adding more biotin to your diet through food or supplements may improve peeling nails. Look for individual biotin supplements or take it as part of a B-complex vitamin. Foods rich in biotin include wheat germ, nuts, sardines, egg yolks, mushrooms, bananas, beans, cauliflower and whole grains. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement.
Iron
Iron deficiencies may result in brittle nails, according to the website FamilyDoctor. The mineral helps your body carry oxygen to all parts of your body. If you don't get enough iron in your diet, the deficiency may result in paleness, weakness, hair loss and weak or peeling nails. For serious cases of iron deficiency anemia, your doctor may prescribe high doses of an iron supplement. Otherwise, she may suggest a multivitamin containing iron or a separate iron supplement, as well as eating more iron-rich foods such as liver, blackstrap molasses, beans, seafood, dried fruit, nuts, dark green vegetables, whole grains and iron-fortified cereals and breads.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron, which in turn combats nutritional deficiencies that can lead to peeling nails and other signs of anemia. FamilyDoctor recommends eating foods high in vitamin C at the same time you consume your iron-rich foods. Similarly, if you take supplements, either take a multivitamin with both vitamin C and iron or take your two supplements at the same time. Along with peeling nails associated with anemia, a lack of proper vitamin C announces itself with splitting hair, bleeding gums and scaly skin. Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale and turnip greens deliver both iron and vitamin C. Other foods high in vitamin C include citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, pineapples and blueberries. Whenever possible, eat these foods fresh or lightly steamed, because cooking destroys some of the vitamin C.
Tips
Along with getting proper nutrition, taking proper care of your nails minimizes splitting. The Mayo Clinic website advises applying nail glue or clear polish to nails as soon as you notice new splits. Avoid frequent manicures, and keep your fingernails trimmed neatly while adding moisturizer to your nail care routine. Keeping your nails dry also helps prevent splitting; wear gloves while doing dishes, and don't oversoak your hands while taking a bath.
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