Expert advice

Emily Hope: Registered Nutritionist

Emily is the Nutritionist at Healtheries. She believes being healthy is about balance and moderation, and that food should be nutritious and enjoyable. For more information, visit www.healtheries.co.nz or phone 0800 848 254. ASK ME A QUESTION

White specks on nails: what are they?

Emily Hope

Monday, July 9, 2012

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Question: My nails sometimes get white specks. Do these signal some kind of health problem? If so, what can I do/eat to avoid them?

Answer: These white spots are called Leukonychia, and they are very common. They are caused by past injury to your nail. Because the injury occurs at the nail base, it normally takes about 6 weeks for the white spots to show up. By that time, you’ve probably totally forgotten about knocking your nail! If you get regular manicures, the white spots could also result from excessive pressure on your nail, or an allergic reaction to nail polish or hardeners.

It’s a common myth that these spots are caused by a Zinc or Calcium deficiency. However, if you want strong, healthy nails (plus hair and skin), it’s important to eat a varied diet that’s rich in:

wholegrains
lean meats
seafood
egg
legumes
low-fat dairy products
healthy fats from nuts, seeds and oily fish
fruits and vegetables

Emily is the Nutritionist at Healtheries. For more information about Healtheries, one of New Zealand's most trusted health brands, visit www.healtheries.co.nz or phone 0800 848 254.

User comments

my optometrist told me they were 'floaters' little bits of dirt that move around so you don't always see them. happens as you get older...

Very interesting as yup... we all thought it was a deficiency of some sort but to change the subject Now we've got that figured out, does anyone know what the little black floaty bits are in our eyes that some of us get???? I get them alot but they're never permanent and a mate gets them...anyone know?

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