Calcium deposits on the nails

Fact Checked

Deposits of calcium on fingernails are white spots or smears that are found on the surface of the fingernails. People whose fingernails are covered with these spots should increase the daily intake of calcium in the diet, and calcium helps in building strong bones, teeth and fingernails.

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White spots or calcium deposit in the fingernails can be a symptom of injury to the nail base or matrix. It takes about six to seven weeks for the white spots to appear, and they are only temporary and disappear as the nail grows, but if the body lacks calcium, it will affect the health of the nail. The nails become flexible and when subjected to even a slight injury, it can lead to the formation of white spots on the nails.

Causes of calcium deposits on nails

• White spots on the fingernails can be caused by trauma to the nails such as a minor injury which can be felt by the person while doing a task, but in a few weeks a white spot develops on the nail.
• Wearing tight fitting shoes for long periods of time can cause injury to the nail bed.
• An allergy to nail polish can cause white spot or after having infection in the nail.
• A weak, flexible nail that gets injured easily is more susceptible of developing white spots on the fingernails.

Treatment and home remedies for calcium deposits on the nails

• Make sure the diet contains enough amounts of calcium and zinc. Remember that milk is the best source of calcium. Drink at least 2 glasses of milk every day. Cheese and yogurt are also good sources of calcium.
• Other foods that are also rich in calcium content include fish, tofu and vegetables such as broccoli should be included in the diet.
• Take vitamin D since it is also essential for the absorption of calcium. Vitamin D can be acquired from sunlight by being exposed for at least thirty minutes per day.
• Minimize consumption of sodium and protein in the diet. When there is plenty of salt and protein in the diet, it can cause the body to excrete calcium.
• Avoid taking calcium supplements unless a doctor is consulted. The best way to acquire calcium is in the diet and when there is enough calcium in the body, white spots will not develop and the nail will be strengthened and can survive minor injuries.
• An adult person at the age of 19 to 70 years old requires 1,000mg of calcium per day. After the age of 70, the requirement is increased to 1,200mg of calcium per day.
• Excessive intake of calcium can cause aging skin, fatigue, weakened kidneys and calcium stones. As long as the supply of calcium in the body is adequate, deposits of calcium in the fingernails should gradually disappear.