Our bodies have an impressive way of communicating when things are out of balance. By paying attention to changes like white marks on our nails, texture changes in our skin, or even the appearance of our earlobes(!), we can gain valuable insights into potential deficiencies or health risks. Here are five signs to be aware of and what they might mean.
1. Crack Down the Middle of the Tongue
A cracked or fissured tongue, particularly with a prominent line running down the middle, may be a sign of gut permeability, often referred to as “leaky gut syndrome.” This condition occurs when the intestinal lining becomes overly permeable, allowing undigested food particles and toxins to pass into the bloodstream. This can lead to inflammation and may contribute to various health issues, including fatigue, skin problems, and food sensitivities. Supporting gut health by consuming collagen and glutamine rich bone broth for repair, probiotic-rich foods like kefir and sauerkraut, along with anti-inflammatory foods like ginger and turmeric, can be beneficial. You may also want to avoid highly processed foods and consider working with a certified nutritionist for personalised guidance.
2. White Marks on Nails
White spots or flecks on the nails, also known as leukonychia, can sometimes occur due to minor nail injuries. However, when these marks appear frequently or in multiple spots, they may indicate a zinc deficiency. Zinc is essential for immune function, wound healing, and cell growth. Low zinc levels can also lead to hair loss, weakened immunity, and slower healing of wounds. To increase zinc intake, try incorporating foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas and meat into your diet, or consider a zinc supplement if needed. Oysters are a particularly good source of Zinc.
3. Keratosis Pilaris (that bumpy skin on the back of your arms)
Keratosis pilaris (KP), often called “chicken skin,” appears as small, rough bumps on the back of the arms, thighs, or even the face. This skin condition occurs when keratin builds up and blocks hair follicles. While it can be genetic, a deficiency in retinol (the active form of vitamin A) can result in this condition. Vitamin A is crucial for skin health, as it helps to maintain healthy cell turnover. To boost vitamin A levels, include retinol-rich foods like liver, dairy products and eggs in your diet, or consume beta-carotene sources such as carrots and sweet potatoes, which the body can convert into vitamin A (be mindful that not everyone converts efficiently though so sometimes a supplement may be needed for those following a vegan diet).
4. Twitching Eye
5. Crease in Earlobe
A diagonal crease on one or both earlobes, often called "Frank’s sign," has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease in some studies. This crease could be a sign of reduced blood flow to the area, potentially reflecting underlying vascular health issues. While a crease in the earlobe does not definitively indicate heart disease, it may be a sign to take your cardiovascular health more seriously. If you have an earlobe crease and other risk factors for heart disease, such as a family history of heart conditions or high blood pressure, it’s a good idea to investigate this further.
Keep listening...
By paying close attention to these subtle messages from the body, we can gain valuable clues about potential nutritional deficiencies or health imbalances. While some signs may seem minor or unrelated, they can offer insight into deeper issues that might be worth exploring. Supporting your body with a nutrient-rich diet and seeking personalised advice from a certified nutritionist can help address these imbalances and promote overall wellbeing.
