Your nails can provide valuable insights into your overall health, often reflecting conditions related to your liver, lungs, or heart. Changes in nail texture or color can signal various health concerns, from nutritional deficiencies to more serious systemic diseases. Vertical stripes, commonly seen with aging, may indicate a lack of essential vitamins like B12 or minerals such as iron and magnesium. Horizontal ridges, known as Beau’s lines, can result from trauma, severe illness, or stress-related disruptions in nail growth. Additionally, white horizontal lines, or Muehrcke’s lines, could suggest kidney or liver issues due to low protein levels in the blood.

While some nail changes are harmless, others warrant medical attention. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals—such as biotin, iron, and zinc—can improve nail health over time. Experts suggest that weak or brittle nails often result from poor nutrition rather than serious diseases. However, if significant or sudden changes occur across multiple nails, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable. Your nails serve as a natural health indicator, so paying attention to their condition can help detect underlying issues early.