 A lack of several different vitamins and minerals can cause brittle nails. To treat brittle nails, try taking a multivitamin with 100 percent of the daily value of the essential vitamins. A >multivitamin and mineral combination may provide some added coverage for possible deficiencies. Deficiencies in vitamin A and B vitamins have been associated with brittle nails. Iron and calcium deficiencies may also be to blame. These vitamins and minerals been associated with nail health and growth. But there are no studies that have proven that supplementing with these vitamins improves the condition of nails. A lack of vitamin H, also known as >biotin, may also lead to brittle nails. Two recent studies showed that taking biotin helped improve nail strength. While the evidence isn't especially strong, a biotin supplement may be worth trying if the nail condition bothers you. Biotin supplements come in doses of 300 to 1000 micrograms. Two doses of 1000 mcg with meals, in the morning and again at night, will provide doses similar to those used in research studies. If nausea, cramps, diarrhea, or other side effects develop, stop using it. Sources:
Hochman, L.G., R.K. Scher, M.S. Meyerson. "Brittle nails: response to daily biotin supplementation," Cutis 51 (1993).
Colombo, V.E., F. Gerber, M. Bronhofer, G.L. Floersheim. "Treatment of Brittle fingernails and Onychoschizia with Biotin: Scanning Electron Microscopy," Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 23 (1993).
Forbes, G.M., A. Forbes. "Micronutrient Status in Patients Receiving Home Parenteral Nutrition," Nutrition 13 (1997).
Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Avery Publishing Group, 1997.
Silverman, H.M., J.A. Romano, G. Elmer. The Vitamin Book. Bantam Books, 1999.
Habif, Thomas. Clinical Dermatology. Mosby-Year Book Inc., 1996.
This answer prepared 7/25/00.
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