Our nails are affected by a number of different conditions, but one of the most influential is diet. Nails are made up of a protein, called keratin, and a combination of minerals, which includes calcium, potassium and other trace minerals, such as zinc. Nails also need essential fatty acids and vitamins to be tip - top condition and strong, healthy nails depend on regular intake of all these nutrients. If your nails have white marks on them, this is an indication that you may be deficient in zinc.

You say that you don?t eat rubbish food (which I am pleased about!), but mineral deficiencies can take a long time to rebalance themselves - for example, up to 6 months with zinc. Fingernails also take about 4 months to grow out. Therefore, if your healthy diet has been a fairly recent change, your nails may not be benefiting just yet.

If this is not the case, you may need to look at rebalancing your overall diet. Ensure that you are eating adequate amounts of protein, as this will help strengthen the keratin. Eat more oily fish (salmon, fresh tuna, mackerel) and seeds, as these contain the essential fatty acids your nails need, as well as being a good source of zinc and protein. And make sure you get your 5-a-day of fruit and vegetables too for all the vitamins and minerals they contain. For extra zinc, include more lamb, haddock, eggs and almonds in your diet.

You may find that supplements could help improve the condition of your nails in the short-term. There are many on the market that claim to do this, but make sure they include the minerals I have suggested above. Also, I'd avoid household products, which can have a damaging effect on your nails, by wearing rubber gloves. Hopefully, this action plan will give you healthier and more beautiful looking nails in a few months time!