During the discussion, he referenced a 1979 study in which researchers tracked fingernail growth in hundreds of people over several years.
The study found that, starting at age 30, the average rate of nail growth slowed by about 0.5% per year.
According to these findings, if someone’s nails grow faster than this expected rate, it could indicate that they are aging at a slower-than-average pace.
Beyond aging, fingernails can also provide warning signs for more serious health conditions.
Although nails naturally vary between individuals, experts advise paying close attention to any noticeable changes in shape or color.
For instance, a black spot beneath the nail could be a sign of cancer, while white spots or lines may suggest a deficiency in essential nutrients like calcium, iron, or zinc.
