Question:
What vitamin deficiency can cause ridges in finger nails?

I've recently noticed that my fingernails are starting to get ridges in them. They are verticle ridges from tip to cuticle. My pinkies and ring fingers seem to have it most. I vaguely remember reading something many years ago that a vitamin deficiency can cause this to happen, but I dont remember which one it was. I was just wondering if anyone out there has ever heard of this? Thank you :-)    — KellyJeanB (posted on February 26, 2005)

February 26, 2005
It may not be caused by a deficiency unless it is disease related. Two conditions that cause this problem are Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) and Myofascia Pain Syndrom (MPS). You might want to read up on those disorders. You can also do a search on the internet on the causes of ridges in fingernails.
   — SnowWhiteDove459

February 26, 2005
Nail textures: Vertical ridges that appear on the nail can indicate disorders as simple as iron deficiency, poor absorption of vitamins and nutrients, overall poor health or they could indicate something as serious as kidney trouble. (So, you see why consulting your physician is so important.) These vertical ridges, as well as bumpy nails, can also suggest that one is prone to developing arthritis. Ridges running horizontally across the nail can indicate physical or mental stress. Nutrition plays an extremely important role in every function of our bodies, right down to the tips of our fingers and toes, literally. As well as signs of other possible disorders, nails can let us know how we add up when it comes to getting all of our required nutrients. Since nails are mainly made up of protein, they can immediately alert us to a lack of it in our diet. White lined bands across the nail beds can signal a protein dificiency. You can get protein from beans, oats, seeds, nuts, eggs and lean meats. Calcium is also important for healthy nails. Without it, the nails lose their strength and become brittle and dry. You can find calcium in green leafy vegetables, dairy products, sesame seeds or even a daily supplement. As mentioned before, ridges in the nails can be a result of vitamin deficiency, one of which is the B vitamins. Vitamin B is needed for strengthening, while vitamin B12 also strengthens while promoting normal nail growth and healthy coloring. Vitamin C is another necessary vitamin. Adequate intake can help prevent hang nails and swelling of nail tissue, and a frequent occurance of either of these symptoms is a good indication of a deficiency.
   — fishnrockport

February 27, 2005
Vertical ridges in the nails indicate poor health and poor nutrient absorption and possibly iron deficiency.
   — rainbowheart

February 27, 2005
Hi, Another possibility is a thyroid problem. One of the ways I know my thyroid is off and I need a dosage change is ridges on my nails like you describe. Good luck, Leslie
   — Leslie S.

March 16, 2005
I am a nail tech. Naturaly, I suspect vitamin deficiancy particularly if you have had WLS. But dehydration, genetics and aging are often responsible. Have your Dr. check your blood to see what you are deficiant in. Increase dosage of whatever is low and add about 3x the recommended daily requirement of BIOTIN. This is a B vitamin specific to protien and it will improve hair and nail quality. Drink lots of water and use a good cuticle moisturizer. I recommend the balm type applied at bedtime so it stays on longer without being washed off. To make nails look better for the time being, use a 3-way buffer.
   — KerryBnTX

March 16, 2005
I just recently saw my dermatologist about this very same problem. Mine is a little worse because one nail has actually started to split along the ridge line, but it's a long way from falling apart. In short, the doctor said there isn't much you can do. He suggested the biotin, but one in particular from a company called ELON (www.ilovemynails.com) . And a thick cream also from ELON. He said the condition is caused in part to dryness, so take the pills daily and use the cream at least 3 times a day and with some luck the should grow out past the problem with 4 to 6 months. I've only been using it for about 2 weeks so it's to soon to judge at this time. Good Luck
   — oznog4