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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What strengthens nail regrowth?

    Hi I stabbed myself with a cactus prong in my R thumb at the base of my nail bed I had to have surgery to have the nail removed and the infection cleaned but since the operation my nail is constantly splitting is there anything that can be done to fix this problem?
  • Find a professional to answer your question

  • Penelope Armes

    Nutritionist

    I am a Naturopathic Nutritionist dealing with the public on a daily basis. I enjoy discussing food as medicine with customers, empowering people to help … View Profile

    Nail growth requires proteins rich in essential amino acids as well as other supportive nutrients. Increasing protein-rich foods that are easily digested(steamed fish, boiled egg - especially the white, pea protein powder, quinoa, dairy) throughout your day may optimise your nail recovery.To improve the quality of the nail regrowth and underlying connective tissue layers require other supportive nutrients including Biotin, Inositol, Zinc, Manganese, Silica, vitamins A, B5, C and E. Therapeutic supplements can be found which contain all of these, in the right dosages, if the diet is inadequate. Avoid getting dehydrated during recovery(increase water, reduce tea, coffe and alcohol) and sufficient sleep for the optimal repair to take place will also assist.

  • Anthony Short

    Podiatrist (General)

    Anthony Short BAppSc(Pod) MPod hold both Bachelor and Master level degrees in podiatry, and works in private practice, hospital and educational positions within Brisbane. His … View Profile

    Nails are made of keratin, a protein, which is the same stuff that our skin is made of. Nutritional deficienciescan reduce the strength of nails and make them brittle and prone to splitting.
    Being located at the ends of the extremities, nails can be particularly sensitive to a reduction in blood flow and oxygen perfusion, as they are a long way form the heart.
    Blocked arteries, hypertension, cigarette smoking, lung disease (eg chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) can all reduce the quality and rate of nail growth.

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