What aspect of nails is assessed to determine overall health?

The assessment of texture and smoothness of nails provides significant insight into overall health. Healthy nails typically have a consistent texture and a smooth surface, which can indicate proper nutrition and the absence of underlying health issues. Rough, ridged, or pitted nails may suggest various health problems, including deficiencies in vitamins and minerals or other systemic conditions.

While color and size, growth rate, and thickness and shape also provide information about nail health, texture and smoothness are particularly indicative of the condition of the skin and nails. These features can reveal changes that are associated with nutritional deficits or diseases, making them a vital focus in assessing overall health.