Although not a direct cause of peeling nails, vitamin D may be indirectly responsible for weakening nails through its role in bone loss and disease prevention. A vitamin D deficiency can cause osteoporosis, a condition of porous, brittle bones that may contribute to nails becoming thin, fragile or distorted. It may also play a role in the treatment of psoriasis, a skin condition. Exposure to moisture or chemicals is the most common cause of peeling nails; however, other vitamin deficiencies and underlying diseases are associated with nail symptoms.
Osteoporosis
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium to ensure bone mineralization, growth and maintenance. A 2005 study published in the "Journal of Women's Health" stated that the bone disorder osteoporosis, caused by a lack of vitamin D, can sometimes be responsible for weakened nails. The results of the study were not statistically significant; further research is warranted because bones and nails are related in that they both need protein sulfation and disulfide bond formation to maintain structure, and may be similarly affected.
Vitamin D and Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a condition of thick, red, flaky, itchy dry skin that has been shown to cause nails to split and can destroy the nail plate itself. A 2011 study published in "Rheumatology International" found that high doses of vitamin D given to rheumatoid arthritis patients with vitamin D deficiency helped resolve the painful psoriasis lesions caused by drug therapy. This study showed a link between vitamin D and nail strength, and the potential for using the vitamin to treat psoriasis.
Adequate Vitamin D
Getting plenty of vitamin D is crucial to maintaining healthy bones throughout life. Children up to 12 months of age should receive 400 IU of vitamin D daily, and those up to age 70 should get 600 IU. Those over 70 should take 800 IU per day. These recommendations can be achieved through diet or supplementation. Sources high in vitamin D include cod liver oil, herring, egg yolks, fortified milk, salmon and chicken. Additionally, sunlight and vitamin D supplements are excellent sources, and can help the body absorb calcium.
Moisture and Chemicals
Onychorrhexis is the medical term for nails that peel in vertical sections from nail bed to fingertip, often appearing as ridges and splitting at the edge. Onchoschizia refers to when nails split and peel in layers. These are commonly attributed to prolonged exposure to moisture or chemicals, and can be more severe in already weakened nails. Repetitious wetting followed by drying causes brittleness, and can be exacerbated in winter and periods of low humidity. Constant hand-washing for cleanliness or dish washing may put nails into water too often. Nail fragility, peeling and breakage can also occur because of chemicals such as detergents or cleaning fluids, or nail polish removers. Those working with alkalis, sugar-compound solutions and solvents often visit the dermatologist with peeling, brittle and weakened nails. Wear rubber gloves, long sleeves and goggles for protection.
Other Causes
Deficiencies in vitamin A, C or B-6 or in zinc are largely associated with brittle nails, while an iron deficiency is commonly associated with koilonychias, an upward curve of the nail.
Other known causes of peeling and splitting nails include psoriasis, liver disease and congenital diseases of nail dysplasia such as Witkop's syndrome. Severe arthritic deformities, hypothyroidism, types of anemia and arsenic poisoning are known culprits of brittle nails and can make them more susceptible to peeling in the winter. Talk to your doctor if you have nail problems, as there are many possible causes.
Diet
A balanced diet is important for strong bones, teeth, and hair and skin vitality. Protein-rich foods, whole grains, legumes, dark leafy greens and dairy are excellent sources of B vitamins, zinc, calcium and magnesium. Orange fruits and vegetables, as well as vegetable oils, asparagus and almonds, are high in vitamins A, C, and E and will help prevent treatable nail problems. Creams and oils that feature these vitamins and those that contain lanolin and alpha-hydroxy acids can be massaged into nail beds for hydration, relief and fortification. Supplementation with biotin may be beneficial in some people.
References
- "Rheumatology International"; Resolution of Adalimumab-Induced Psoriasis After Vitamin D Deficiency Treatment; G. R. Werner de Castro, et al.; 2011
- "Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology"; Nail Changes in Patients with Liver Disease; A. Salem, et al; 2009
- "Journal of Women's Health"; The Use of Fingernails As a Means of Assessing Bone Health; I. Pillay, et al.; 2005
- National Institutes of Health: Vitamin D
- Medline Plus: Nail Abnormalities
- American Osteopathic College of Dermatology: Brittle Splitting Nails
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