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Symptom guide

Brittle nails

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.

Brittle nails

Symptoms

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

Causes

  • 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

  • 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

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When to see a doctor

At-home testing is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. If symptoms are severe, sudden, or worsening, contact a healthcare provider.

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Accredited labs

Processed in ISO 15189 / 17025 facilities.

Validated assays

Performance-tested against clinical references.

500,000+ customers

Trusted across the UK, EU and US.

At-home collection

Simple kits with step-by-step instructions.

Discreet shipping

Plain packaging, tracked end-to-end.

Expert laboratory analysis

Samples analysed using validated methods by experienced laboratory teams.

Privacy protected

Strict data protection and confidentiality throughout the testing process.

Retest promise

Sample issue? We make it right.

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