Did You Know Your Fingernails Can Reveal Clues About Your Gut Health?
If you struggle with digestive issues like IBS, FODMAP intolerance, SIBO, or gluten sensitivity, your fingernails might hold hidden insights into your overall health. Changes in your nails—such as ridges, spots, or discoloration—could point to nutritional deficiencies or other imbalances linked to digestive problems. When your gut isn’t functioning properly, your nails might be one of the first places to show it.
Curious to learn more? Let’s uncover how your nails could be the missing piece in understanding your gut health!
1. White Lines
White Lines on Nails
White lines on nails are common and often caused by minor injuries, such as slamming a door or hitting the nail. If trauma is the cause, the lines typically appear only on the affected nail and grow out over time.
However, if there is no history of injury, two common types of white lines—Muehrcke’s lines and Mee’s lines—may indicate underlying health issues.
Muehrcke’s Lines
Appearance:
- Paired horizontal white lines that do not move as the nail grows.
- Typically span the entire nail bed and appear uniform.
- Unlike trauma-related lines, they often affect multiple nails and fade when pressed.
Possible Causes:
- Low albumin (a blood protein)
- Deficiencies in niacin (vitamin B3) or zinc
- Digestive disorders
- Malnutrition
- Less common causes: Chemotherapy, kidney disease, or liver disease
Mee’s Lines
Appearance:
- Horizontal white bands across the nail.
Possible Causes:
- Most commonly linked to heavy metal poisoning, such as arsenic or thallium.
- Note for gluten-free diets: Those who consume large amounts of rice may be exposed to higher levels of arsenic.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice unusual white lines on your nails—especially if they appear on multiple nails or are accompanied by other symptoms—it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider.
Amy Burkhart MD RD
The dried form is easy to find in Latin grocery stores, in the spice aisle of well-stocked grocery stores, Walmart, and online, including Amazon. You can also find the live plant at many nurseries.
2. Split, Weak and Bendable Fingernails
Possible Causes of Nail Changes
Nail changes can happen for various reasons, including aging, frequent nail picking, and repeated exposure to water. However, when these changes occur alongside digestive or other health symptoms, underlying conditions should be considered.
Common Causes:
- Nutrient Deficiencies:
- Iron
- Low protein levels
- Magnesium
- B12
- Biotin
- Zinc
- Hypothyroidism
A simple blood test can help evaluate these nutrient levels.
Less Common Causes:
- Low folate
- Vitamin C, D, or calcium deficiency
- Possible link to low stomach acid (more research needed)
Additionally, if nails are frequently bitten or chewed, anxiety levels may need to be assessed, as chronic health conditions can contribute to anxiety and depression.
Amy Burkhart MD RD
3. Ridges
Vertical Ridges
Vertical ridges on nails are common and usually harmless. They often develop with age as moisture levels decrease under the nail bed—similar to how skin forms wrinkles over time. To minimize their appearance, keep your nails and cuticles well-moisturized.
Horizontal Ridges
Horizontal ridges require more attention than vertical ones.
- Single ridge: Often caused by trauma or a temporary illness that disrupts nail growth.
- Recurring or persistent ridges: May indicate underlying health issues such as:
- Zinc deficiency
- Diabetes
- Vascular problems
- (Rarely) Rheumatoid arthritis
If you notice ongoing horizontal ridges, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
Amy Burkhart MD RD
4. Scoop or Spoon Nails (Koilonychia)
Causes of Spoon-Shaped (Scoop) Nails
Spoon-shaped nails, or “scoop” nails, can be linked to digestive issues and underlying health conditions.
Common Causes:
- Iron deficiency (with or without anemia)
- Hemochromatosis – a genetic disorder causing excessive iron absorption
A simple blood test can assess both conditions.
Less Common Causes:
- Raynaud’s disease
- Lupus (typically accompanied by other lupus symptoms)
- Trauma to the nails
- Nail-patella syndrome – a rare genetic condition affecting nails and kneecaps
If you notice persistent spoon-shaped nails, consider discussing them with a healthcare professional.
Amy Burkhart MD RD
5. White Spots (Leukonychia)
White Spots on Nails: Causes and When to Be Concerned
White spots on nails are usually harmless and often result from minor injuries, such as bending or hitting the nail. However, if they appear frequently, in large numbers, or alongside other symptoms, further investigation may be needed.
Possible Causes:
- Minor Injuries: Common and typically harmless.
- Nutritional Deficiencies:
- Low zinc or calcium levels, often due to restrictive diets or absorption issues.
- Fungal Infections:
- Spots may appear near the base or tip of the nail.
- The nail may also split or become brittle.
- Allergic Reactions:
- Some individuals with digestive issues or allergies may react to nail products.
- If you recently started using a new product, stop using it to see if the spots improve.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
In rare cases, white spots may signal a more serious condition, such as an infection. If you experience fever or other severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
Amy Burkhart MD RD
Pay Attention To What Your Nails Are Telling You
Your nails can be more than just a cosmetic concern—they may serve as early warning signs of underlying digestive issues like celiac disease, IBS, and gluten sensitivity. The five common nail changes discussed here could point to nutrient deficiencies or other imbalances that deserve attention.
If you notice persistent nail abnormalities, don’t overlook them. Talk to your healthcare provider to uncover potential causes and take proactive steps toward better health. Sometimes, the smallest signs—like changes in your nails—can lead to the biggest insights.
