Your fingernails may reveal hidden clues about diet and health risks
A new study has revealed that fingernails store detailed mineral patterns linked to diet and lifestyle. Researchers at Fulda University of Applied Sciences analysed 184 participants and found that nail composition reflects long-term nutritional habits. The findings suggest that simple nail tests could one day help detect dietary deficiencies or health risks without invasive procedures.
The Fulda NutriNAIL study, published in the journal BioFactors, examined fingernail samples from adults aged 18 to 81. Using advanced technology called inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), scientists measured mineral levels with high precision. Because nails grow slowly, they capture mineral deposits over weeks or months, offering a long-term record of dietary intake.
Results showed clear differences based on diet. Omnivores had significantly higher selenium levels than vegetarians or vegans. Participants taking selenium supplements registered 21% more selenium in their nails than those who did not. The study also noted that people with thyroid conditions exhibited elevated selenium concentrations. Beyond selenium, the research linked specific nail abnormalities to mineral imbalances. Brittle nails, longitudinal ridges, and white spots were associated with irregular levels of potassium, sodium, and chromium. These visible changes could serve as early indicators of nutritional gaps or metabolic issues. Looking ahead, the team plans to combine mineral analysis with AI-assisted image scanning. This approach aims to identify micronutrient deficiencies faster and more accurately, potentially improving early diagnosis and personalised nutrition advice.
The study confirms that fingernails provide a reliable, non-invasive way to track dietary and lifestyle factors over time. By analysing mineral patterns, researchers can detect deficiencies, dietary habits, and even health conditions like thyroid disorders. Future work will explore AI tools to make this method even more practical for routine health monitoring.
