Which mineral is essential for the strength and hardness of nails?

The mineral essential for the strength and hardness of nails is zinc. Zinc plays a crucial role in the overall health and function of keratin, the primary protein that makes up nails. It is involved in the production of new cells and in the synthesis of proteins, which contribute to the structural integrity of your nails. A deficiency in zinc can lead to weakened nails, resulting in brittleness and increased susceptibility to damage.

While iron, calcium, and magnesium are important minerals for various bodily functions, they are not primarily responsible for nail hardness. Iron supports the formation of hemoglobin and is crucial for oxygen transport; calcium is vital for bone health and muscle function; and magnesium contributes to many biochemical reactions in the body, but they do not influence the structural properties of nails to the same extent as zinc.