What those vertical lines on your nails really reveal

Have you noticed fine vertical lines on your nails? I wonder if this is normal or something we should be concerned about? This detail, often considered unimportant, could actually say a lot about what’s going on inside your body. What if these tiny lines were a discreet reflection of your overall balance?
When nails become messengers

Our nails, much more than just supports for nail polish, are linked to several essential functions: blood circulation, the nervous system, metabolism… Sometimes they can reflect imbalances we don’t notice elsewhere. Dehydration, temporary fatigue, but also signs of deficiency or prolonged stress: upon closer inspection, these famous vertical lines deserve more attention.

Iron deficiency: when oxygen circulation is impaired
Iron plays a key role in transporting oxygen through red blood cells. A deficiency can affect nail growth and cause ridges to appear. Fatigue, pale complexion, dizziness… there are many signs that can accompany this deficiency. It most commonly affects women with heavy periods or people who eat little meat.

A simple blood test can help you take stock before considering supplementation.

Essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and cellular vitality, vitamin B12 directly affects the condition of your nails. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, concentration problems, and yes… those famous streaks. Vegan diets or certain digestive disorders may be implicated.

Consider fortified foods or appropriate supplements, but always consult a healthcare professional.

Thyroid in Slow Motion: Telltale Nails
The thyroid gland influences nail growth, in addition to regulating our energy and body temperature. If it acts slowly, nails become dry, brittle, and ridged. Unexplained weight gain, feeling cold, low energy… all of these signs, when combined, can raise suspicion.
A simple hormone test (TSH, T3, T4) can provide clear answers.

Chronic stress acts as a silent exhaustor: it depletes nutrient reserves and impairs their absorption. The result? Nails grow more slowly, become ridged, and more brittle. This phenomenon is accentuated if we tend to bite our nails or neglect our lifestyle.

Take the time to breathe, to breathe, to move… your nails will thank you.

Random Digestion: Impaired Absorption
Even with a balanced diet, if the digestive system is impaired, vitamin absorption can be compromised. Bloating, irregular bowel movements, digestive discomfort… are many telltale signs. What if ridges on your nails were a secondary consequence of this internal imbalance?
Focus on fiber, simple foods, and listen to your body’s signals.

A Bad Habit: Nail Biting
It may seem trivial, but nail biting damages the nail matrix, which can lead to persistent ridges or even infections. This action, often linked to stress or boredom, weakens the nail’s very structure.

Bitter-tasting nail polishes or stress management exercises can help break this habit permanently.

Some Kind Attention to Yourself
Vertical ridges on your nails are usually benign, but they’re never there without a reason. Whether it’s stress, deficiency, or digestive imbalance, they’re an invitation to listen more to your body. So, the next time you notice them, ask yourself this simple question: What do I really need today?