It has often been said that you can judge the health of a person by their nails. If a person has hangnails, chipping fingernails and uneven nail tones it is a sure sign that there is some sort of imbalance in the body. This could range from digestive problems to lack of certain vitamins and nutrients. In order to ensure proper nail health, you must eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables, which will satisfy your nutritional needs and promote strong, healthy nails. Here are five essential vitamins or nutrients that are needed in order for nails to look great and be naturally healthy.

1. Vitamin A: A lack of Vitamin A in the body can cause, dry brittle nails that tend to flake and break off. A great source is carrots-juicing carrots is especially nutritional, as you can get the benefit of eating about a pound of carrots in drinking a cup or so of juice. Broccoli is also a great source of Vitamin A.

2. Calcium. Calcium is very important in the production and health of strong, health nails, bones and teeth. Those who are calcium deficient not only have weak nails, but can develop osteoporosis which is a disease that causes bones to fracture and break easily. Calcium is found in milk, cheese, and other dairy products.

3. Protein. Lack of protein can cause hangnails as well as white bands across the nails. Chicken or other lean meats are a great source of protein.

4. Vitamin B12. A lack of this vitamin can cause the skin to become dry as well as darkening and discoloration and deformation of the end of nails. Fish, lean meat, and fortified breakfast cereals are perfect options for this vitamin.

5. Zinc. Zinc deficiency causes white spots on nails as well as brittleness. Brown rice, spinach, and salmon all contain high amounts of zinc.

Along with getting proper vitamins and nutrients from your diet, make sure to follow other guidelines to maintaining healthy hands and nails. Washing your hands frequently, using a moisturizer, refraining from biting your nails and getting regularly manicures will promote healthy hands and nails.