Brittle nails and nail changes can be indicators of underlying health issues. While conventional medicine often treats these symptoms with topical creams and nail treatments, functional medicine takes a holistic approach to identify and address the underlying causes of these conditions. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of brittle nails and nail changes from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of brittle nails and nail changes

The symptoms of brittle nails and nail changes can include:

• Brittle or weak nails.
  
• Peeling or splitting nails.
  
• Discoloration or yellowing of nails.
  
• Thickening of nails.
  
• Nails that lift from the nail bed.

Causes of brittle nails and nail changes

The causes of brittle nails can vary from person to person, and can be influenced by a number of factors including genetics, lifestyle, diet, environmental toxins, stress, and hormonal imbalances. Some common triggers include:

• Nutrient deficiencies: Deficiencies in nutrients such as biotin, iron, and zinc can affect nail health and lead to brittle nails and nail changes.
  
• Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid dysfunction, can affect nail health and lead to brittle nails and nail changes.
  
• Chronic inflammation: Chronic inflammation can damage the nail bed and lead to brittle nails and nail changes.
  
• Environmental toxins: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as heavy metals and chemicals, can affect nail health and lead to brittle nails and nail changes.
  
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as psoriasis and fungal infections, can affect nail health and lead to nail changes.
  

Treatments for brittle nails and nail changes

Functional medicine approaches to treating brittle nails and nail changes involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes of the condition. Some common treatments include:

• Nutritional supplements: Supplements such as biotin, iron, and zinc can help address nutrient deficiencies and support nail health.
  
• Lifestyle modifications: A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress-reduction techniques such as meditation and yoga can help improve overall health and support nail health.
  
• Environmental modifications: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants, and using natural cleaning products can help prevent nail damage and support nail health.
  
• Topical treatments: Natural treatments such as tea tree oil and coconut oil can help improve nail health and prevent fungal infections.
  
• Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms or treat underlying medical conditions.
  

Tests for brittle nails and nail changes

• Food intolerances
• Gluten intolerance
• Gut tests
• SIBO
• Hormone tests: Adrenals, Thyroid, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
• Nutrition tests: Amino acids, Fatty acids, Minerals, Vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), Vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), Vitamins (All)
• Heavy metals

In conclusion, brittle nails and nail changes can be caused by a variety of factors, and functional medicine approaches to treatment involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes to provide long-lasting relief from symptoms. By addressing the root causes of brittle nails and nail changes, individuals can maintain and improve their nail health and overall well-being.