What your nails say about you
NAILS
Unusually pale nails
Healthy nail beds are pink because there is a rich blood supply underneath. If yours become white-looking or even blue-tinged, this could mean you are suffering from a lack of iron or else poor circulation and your blood is not reaching the ends of your fingers.
White spots
Small white flecks on your nails may indicate a lack of zinc in your diet. You need zinc for a variety of bodily functions, including effective digestion. Foods that are rich in zinc include wholegrains, eggs and chicken. White spots can also result from a diet high in alcohol, sugar and fruit.
Brittle nails
These may be another clue that you have a zinc deficiency or shortage of iron. They can also indicate a congested liver, resulting from an inadequate diet. Try to eat more vegetables, pulses (peas and beans) and fish.
Ridges
Ridges or bands on your nails could indicate a lack of selenium. New Zealand soils are naturally low in selenium so we can end up with a shortage in our diets. Fish and shellfish are a good source. If you take supplements – don’t overdo it.
Did you know?
During surgery, some anaesthetists will look at your nails. They’re not admiring your manicure – they’re double checking that you’re getting enough oxygen. If your fingernails appear blue or white, they know there’s a potential problem with oxygen getting through.
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Over the Teacups
My four-year-old grandson was at the supermarket with his mother when he exclaimed, “You’re buying something, Mummy, auntie is buying something – I want to buy something!” Mum replied, “You have to be big, have a wife, have a job, then you can buy things.” He replied, “I have a wife – Maia,” meaning his four-year-old friend. Mum said, “What about a job?” Master Four replied, “My job is having a wife!”
Robyn, Whangarei
Water you want?
I was in the car and asking Master Three what he wanted for Christmas. He said he was going to ask Santa for a water pistol. “And Nanny,” he added, “I’m going to ask for some water for our paddling pool.” Now that could be interesting!
Julie, by email
Bee gone
Master Three had his first bee sting recently. The incident broke his heart, but after many cuddles he came right. Later he said, “I never want to see another bee again. I don’t like bees any more, I only like flies.”
Gaileen, by email
Fraud with worry
My daughter warned me that “old people are being taken for a ride,” and that I shouldn’t engage in conversation with phone sales people. To this, Master Five piped up, “Nana can’t go on that ride, she’s old.”
Joseph’s Nana, Hamilton
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