White spots on nails: what they mean, causes, what to eat

You've surely heard that: If you have white patches on your nails, start eating something rich in calcium. While in a way this is good advice (as Poles are massively deficient in calcium), too little calcium in the diet is not the most common or only cause of these changes.

I promise to surprise you. You don't even know how much white spots have in common with... the cardiovascular system. Together with the doctor, Kacper Nihalani, we have prepared the most important information about these small, annoying lesions.

We are going to show you how much they have to do with the circulatory system.

See also:

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• Nail collagen
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• Vitamins for nails
• Collagen for hair, skin and nails
• Best nail conditioner
• Antioxidants
• Oxidative stress

What are white spots on nails?

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White spots on the nails, known as leukonychia, are, small, irregular areas on the nail plate. They are noticeably lighter in colour than the rest of the nail and can occur as a single spot or as a series of spots on one or more nailsand.

These white spots on the nails usually do not itch, hurt or affect the growth or shape of the nail itself. However, their size and position can change as the nail grows. What's more, as a result of growth, the spots can disappear on their own when you simply cut the tip of the nail with the white area.

What are the types of white spots on nails?

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Depending on the type of leukonychia, the spots can have different characteristics. There are four basic types of white spots on the nails. What are their characteristicsand?

• Leukonychia punctata, or single, white spots. This is the most common form of leukonychia. These spots are usually small and appear in various locations on the nail plate. They can appear as a single pigmentation or groups of several spots.
• Leukonychia striata, or banded white striations. These spots are arranged as parallel lines or bands on the nail plate. The lines can be either thin or wide, and either straight or wavy.
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• Leukonychia partialis, or partial nail bleaching. This type of leukonychia manifests as white areas that appear in various locations on the nail plate. These areas are usually larger than the small spots characteristic of leukonychia punctata.
• Leukonychia totalis, or total nail bleaching. This is the rarest form of leukonychia. In this case, the entire nail, from root to tip, becomes whitish or milky.

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What do white spots on the nails mean?

White spots on the nails, called leukonychia, are usually harmless and can result from a variety of causes, such as nail trauma, an allergy to nail cosmetics or a nutritional deficiency.

What are the causes of white spots on the nailsand?

• Physical trauma. The most common cause of white spots on the nails is minor trauma - such as impact. If this is the case, the spots will most likely disappear on their own as the nail grows.
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• Allergic reaction. Some cosmetics for nail care can cause allergies, and one of their effects can be white spots on the nails.
• Nutrient deficiencies. The lack of certain vitamins and mineral ingredients, such as zinc or calcium, can lead to the appearance of white spots. If this is the case, appropriate supplementation can result in improved health.
• Fungal infection. White spots can be a symptom of a fungal infection. It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as thickening, delamination or brittleness of the nail.
• Dermatological disorders. Diseases such as eczema or psoriasis can also cause white spots to appear on the nails. When they occur along with other symptoms, such as skin lesions, it is worth consulting a dermatologist.
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• Cardiovascular disorders. Rarely, but nevertheless - white spots can signal cardiovascular problems, such as ischaemia. If other symptoms are present, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, immediate consultation with a doctor is essential.

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Other causes of white spots on the nails include nail biting, manicure treatments or poisoning with e.g. heavy metals, as well as treatments such as chemotherapy, adds doctor.

White spots on nails - what vitamins and minerals are you lacking?

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In addition to physical injuries, vitamin and mineral deficiencies are the main causes of white spots on the nails. Deficiencies of which macronutrients are most often responsible for this?

Magnesium is an important component of the body's health.

Which diseases can be indicated by white spots on the nails?

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White spots on the nails, although usually harmless, can sometimes signal certain medical conditions. Remember, however, that on their own, without other symptoms, they are rarely an indicator of specific diseasesand.

If they are already indicative of a more serious condition, they are not uncommonly the aforementioned: nail fungus, skin diseases or cardiovascular disorders.

Rarely, but white spots on the nails can also be a sign of kidney failure. The light discolouration in this case occurs with other symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite or respiratory problemsand.

Sometimes white spots on the nails can also be one of the symptoms of diabetes. In the vast majority of cases, they are then associated with other symptoms such as severe fatigue, increased thirst, weight loss or frequent urination.

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After how long should the white spots on the nails caused by the injury disappear?

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White spots on the nails caused by trauma usually disappear on their own as the nail grows naturally. Depending on the location of the spot, this can take from a few weeks to several monthsandy.

The speed of nail growth varies from person to person, but on average, toenails grow about 3-3.5 mm per month. However, this process can be slowed down by a number of factors, such as age, health, diet and time of year (nails tend to grow slower in winter).

Hence, if the white spot has appeared close to the base of the nail, it may take about six months or longer for it to disappear, as the whole nail needs to grow back. If the spot is closer to the end of the nail, you will get rid of it quicker.

White spots on toenails

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White spots on toenails can occur for many different reasons, just as they do on toenails. It is not uncommon for them to similarly be the result of trauma, allergic reaction, infection or may signal a deficiency of certain nutrients.

Cause of white spots on toenailsand:

• Injury. Scratches, impacts or wearing ill-fitting footwear can cause injury to the toenails. As a result, white spots may appear on them, which will usually disappear as the nail grows back.
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• Fungal infections. Nail fungus is a common problem affecting the feet. These fungi thrive best in warm and moist environments, and can cause white spots as well as changes in the shape and colour of the nail.
• Dermal problems. Some skin conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, can lead to changes on the nails, including the appearance of white spots.
• Diabetes. In some circumstances, white spots on the toenails can be the result of diabetes. However, they are only one of many symptoms, and any suspicion of diabetes should be consulted immediately.
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Are white patches on the toenails always ringworm?

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No, white spots on the toenails do not always mean ringworm. Although ringworm is one possible cause of such spots, there are many other potential causes. These could include, for example, past trauma, allergic reactions to cosmetics, nutritional disorders and resulting nutrient deficiencies or skin diseasesand.

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White spots on nails in children

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White spots on nails in children are a fairly common occurrence and are usually not a cause for concern. Many times it is the result of the same causes as in adults, namely trauma (even minor) or allergic reactions, especially to nail cosmetics. What are other causes of white spots on nails in childrenand?

• Inappropriate diet. Children may suffer from a deficiency of certain vitamins or minerals due to an unbalanced diet. For example, a lack of vitamin A or vitamin B12 can lead to the appearance of white spots. Similarly with zinc or calcium.
• Kidney problems Although very rare, but serious conditions such as kidney problems can also manifest as white spots on the nails.
• Atopia and eczema. Children with atopic dermatitis or eczema may have white spots on their nails as a result of these conditions. This is usually accompanied by other skin symptoms as well.
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Remember that when white spots on the nails are the only symptom and disappear over time, they are most likely not a cause for concern. However, if they are present for a longer period of time or are accompanied by other symptoms, it is worth consulting your doctor.

Please note.

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Are white spots on nails in an infant or a one-year-old child dangerous?

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White spots on the nails in infants or one-year-old children are not usually a cause for concern. They are often caused by minor trauma that can occur, for example, during play.

The spots are usually temporary and disappear as the nail grows. It is also important to note that in children under the age of two, white spots are much less likely than in adults to be caused by allergic reactions or fungal infectionsand.

If, however, white spots are present on all the nails or the child has other symptoms such as mood swings, eating problems, seems restless or complains of pain, it is worth consulting a paediatrician.

How to get rid of white spots on nails?

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How to get rid of white spots on the nails depends primarily on their cause. Usually, these spots disappear spontaneously as the nail grows and is replaced by healthy tissue. However, if the white spots are the result of a medical condition, appropriate steps may be necessary.

Nealing infections

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Infections, especially fungal infections, are one of the causes of white spots on the nails. In such situations, pharmacological treatment is necessary. It depends on the type of infection and may include topical application of ointments, creams, nail varnishes or oral therapyand.

Remember that it is important that the treatment is monitored by a doctor until the infection is completely cured.

Remedying nutritional deficiencies

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If the cause of white spots on the nails is a vitamin or mineral deficiency, dietary adjustments or the use of nutritional supplements may be necessary. The principles of healthy eating, i.e. providing the body with all the necessary nutrients, are the key to healthy nailsand.

In some cases, it may also be necessary to consult a nutritionist for a comprehensive nutritional assessment and appropriate supplementation.

Treatment of skin conditions

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In some cases, white spots may be the result of skin diseases such as psoriasis or eczema. In this case, their treatment will require a treatment tailored to the specific ailmentand.

Treatment of psoriasis

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For psoriasis, of which white spots on the nails may be a symptom, treatment is usually long-term and involves several possible methods. The most common treatments are local corticosteroids, creams with vitamin D, retinoids, and light therapies, called phototherapyand.

In some more extreme cases, the doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or biologics that suppress the immune system elements that cause psoriasis symptoms.

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Treatment of eczema

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If the cause of white spots on the nails is eczema, treatment may include the use of topical corticosteroids to relieve symptoms such as itching, redness or dry skinand.

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It is also possible to use antihistamines to help control pruritus. Regular and adequate moisturisation of the skin with specially selected creams and lotions is also an important part of the treatment.

Care.

Hygiene care

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Good hygiene is the basis for healthy nails. Pay attention to washing your hands regularly and disinfecting your manicure tools to remove accumulated bacteria and dirt. Using mild, natural hand-washing products will help protect skin and nails from dryingand.

Additionally, avoid biting your nails - this is an unhealthy habit that can carry bacteria and lead to cracking or nail infections. Taking care of your hygiene is a key step in maintaining healthy nails.

Proper care

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Good care helps keep nails looking healthy and attractive. It is important to regularly apply moisturising creams, oils and nail conditioners, which provide nutrients and help maintain proper moisture levels. Products such as argan oil, olive oil and castor oil are known for their good effects on nail healthand.

At the same time, avoid using nail cosmetics containing harmful substances such as formaldehyde, toluene or dibutyl phthalate (DBP), which can contribute to white spots and damage to the nail plate.

Healthy supplementation

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White spots on the nails are often the result of a deficiency of certain ingredients in the diet. An unhealthy diet and stress can lead to a deficiency of vitamins and minerals that are important for healthy nails. Vitamins A, C, D and biotin (B7) are particularly important for nail health. Also ensure an adequate supply of iron, zinc, magnesium and calcium.

What to eat for white spots on nails?

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For white spots on nails, eat foods rich in protein, such as eggs or meat, as well as biotin - liver or nuts. It is also worth taking care to source calcium and zinc. Peppers and citrus fruits, among others, will provide you with the former. Zinc from e.g. beef.

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In the table below, you will find the most important nutrients whose absence causes white spots on the nails. In the second column, in turn, you will see the five products that provide you with them.

What do you eat?

What to eat for white spots on nailsand?

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How to prevent white spots on nails?

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Preventing white spots on your nails mainly involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking proper care and protection of your nails. What do you need to take care of to ensure your nails remain healthy and full of colourand?

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• Balanced diet. Proper nutrition is very important for healthy nails. It is important to consume enough protein, as well as vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, zinc, biotin and vitamins A, B, C, D.
• Protect your nails.  Avoid contact with chemicals and harmful substances, such as detergents, which can damage your nails. If your professional work requires you to use such products, always wear protective gloves.
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• Proper nail care. Make sure your nails are always clean and dry. This will help prevent infections. Also avoid biting your nails and cuticles, which can lead to infections.
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• Maintain adequate hydration. Hydration is very important for the health of your entire body, including your nails. Drink enough water to keep your skin, hair and nails in good condition. Research suggests that men should take in an average of about 3 litres of fluids a day and women 2.2 litres.
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• Use supplementation (if necessary). If your diet is not providing you with all the ingredients you need, you may want to consider supplementation. With a particular focus on B vitamins, especially biotin, and minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium and calcium.
• Regular health checks. Some illnesses, such as anemia or problems with thyroid gland, can cause white spots on the nails. Regular medical examinations (e.g.  blood tests) can detect such conditions early and take appropriate action.

Best nail supplements

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Best overall

Natu.Care Collagen Premium 5000 mg, mango & passion fruit

5.0

• Collagen content: 5000 mg marine collagen hydrolysate
• Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (and L-theanine and coenzyme Q10 in cocoa flavoured collagen or vitamin A and vitamin E in mango–passion fruit flavoured collagen)
• Form: powder sachets
• Dose: 1 sachet per day
• Sufficient for: 30 days

See price

Product description

Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg, based on certified ingredients of the best quality. Regular supplementation will positively influence the appearance of the skinóry, hairów and nails – they will be rebuilt and strengthened from the inside.

In addition to collagen, which is valuable for health and beauty, it also offers other active ingredients that help to maintain a youthful complexion, shiny hair and strong nails.

The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active ingredient to positively affect joints, the musculoskeletal system and immunity.

Natu.Care Premium Collagen is available in two flavours – Cacao Bloom and Rise&Shine. Both formulas are based on the following active ingredients: marine collagen hydrolysate, wild roseóbud extract and hyaluronic acid.

Additionally, Cacao Bloom contains natural L-theanine, coenzyme Q10 and defatted Dutch cacao. Rise&Shine instead contains vitamin E and vitamin A.

These are the best collagens in the world.

These best fish collagens on the market also rós taste – Cacao Bloom is a treat for chocolate lovers. Rise&Shine will appeal to those whoólike the refreshing taste of mangoófruit and passion fruit.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Vitamin C supports the body's collagen production, enhancing its effectiveness.
• An effective dose of hyaluronic acid, which additionally supports skin hydration and joint health.
• Fish collagen absorbs 50% better. Additionally, the manufacturer specifies the fish species it is sourced from (Atlantic cod).
• The composition has been tested by the independent and accredited J.S. Hamilton laboratory.
• MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) quality certification, which confirms that the collagen source supports sustainable fishing practices.

Cons:

• None.

Additional information

Natu.Care's fish collagen receives praise for its delicious taste. You won't find the fishy aftertaste that often comes through in other collagens. Plus, you have two tasty flavors to choose from: cocoa and mango-passionfruit.

Active ingredients like coenzyme Q10, hyaluronic acid, and natural L-theanine provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits while slowing down aging processes.

User review

Super, after about 6 weeks of use, the skin on my face became noticeably firmer. Wonderful taste.

Best for hair

Glow Stories

5.0

• Active ingredients: bamboo shoot extract, Quatrefolic®, L-Methionine, L-cysteine, vitamin E, vitamin A, niacin (vitamin B3), vitamin B6, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), biotin, zinc, copper
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• Form: capsules
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• Dose: 1 capsule per day
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• Sufficient for: 60 days
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See price

Product description

A dietary supplement containing vitamins, minerals and plant extracts thatósupport the skinóhand, hair and nails. The product is especially distinguished by the form of folate – it is Quatrefolic, whichós absorbed very well and is natural.

In addition to valuable vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, E, B3, B2 and biotin, the formula contains bamboo shoot extract, whichóry further enhances your beauty.

Pros and cons

A dietary supplement containing vitamins, minerals and plant extracts thatósupport the skinóhand, hair and nails. The product is especially distinguished by the form of folate – it is Quatrefolic, whichós absorbed very well and is natural.

In addition to valuable vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, E, B3, B2 and biotin, the formula contains bamboo shoot extract, whichóry further enhances your beauty.

Additional information

A dietary supplement containing vitamins, minerals and plant extracts thatósupport the skinóhand, hair and nails. The product is especially distinguished by the form of folate – it is Quatrefolic, whichós absorbed very well and is natural.

In addition to valuable vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, E, B3, B2 and biotin, the formula contains bamboo shoot extract, whichóry further enhances your beauty.

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For nails

Sundose° For Strong Nails°

4.6

• Collagen content: 250 mg PEPTAN® fish collagen;
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• Additional active ingredients: biotin, zinc, vitamin B5, folic acid, horsetail extract
• Form: capsules
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• Dose: 2 capsules daily
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• Sufficient for: 30 days
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See price

Product description

Fish-derived collagen in the form of easily absorbed peptidesós, enriched with a complex blend of active ingredientsós. Prepared to improve the condition of nails, skinóskin and hairóhair.

Pros and cons

Fish-derived collagen in the form of easily absorbed peptidesós, enriched with a complex blend of active ingredientsós. Prepared to improve the condition of nails, skinóskin and hairóhair.

Additional information

Fish-derived collagen in the form of easily absorbed peptidesós, enriched with a complex blend of active ingredientsós. Prepared to improve the condition of nails, skinóskin and hairóhair.

Fish-derived collagen in the form of easily absorbed peptidesós, enriched with a complex blend of active ingredientsós. Prepared to improve the condition of nails, skinóskin and hairóhair.

Solgar Hair Skin Nails

4.8

• Active Ingredients: MSM (organic sulphur), vitamin C, zinc, copper, L-proline, L-lysine, silicon, red algae powder
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• Daily serving: 2 tablets
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• Packaging: 60 or 120 tablets
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• Sufficient for: 1 or 2 months
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See price

Product description

A dietary supplement with a complex of active ingredients affecting the appearance and condition of hairóhair, skinóskin and nailsand. A simple and effective formulation with no unnecessary additivesós. Recommended for hair loss and poor hairócondition, brittle nails and skinócondition without shine and with imperfections.

Pros and cons

A dietary supplement with a complex of active ingredients affecting the appearance and condition of hairóhair, skinóskin and nailsand. A simple and effective formulation with no unnecessary additivesós. Recommended for hair loss and poor hairócondition, brittle nails and skinócondition without shine and with imperfections.

Additional information

A dietary supplement with a complex of active ingredients affecting the appearance and condition of hairóhair, skinóskin and nailsand. A simple and effective formulation with no unnecessary additivesós. Recommended for hair loss and poor hairócondition, brittle nails and skinócondition without shine and with imperfections.

Expert opinion

A dietary supplement with a complex of active ingredients affecting the appearance and condition of hairóhair, skinóskin and nailsand. A simple and effective formulation with no unnecessary additivesós. Recommended for hair loss and poor hairócondition, brittle nails and skinócondition without shine and with imperfections.

When to go to the doctor with white spots on the nails?

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Not infrequently, white spots on the nails are quite harmless and disappear quickly as the nail grows. However, if they are present on multiple nails, become larger or are combined with other symptoms, you should consult your doctor. What additional symptoms should cause you concernand?

• Yellowing, thickening or peeling of the nails,
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• pain, itching,
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• changes in the shape or texture of the nails,
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• hair loss,
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• skin changes,
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These symptoms may be indicative of more serious health conditions, such as infection, nutritional deficiencies, kidney problems or, less commonly, diabetes.

See also:

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• How to take care of your health
• Hypothyroidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Hashimoto's disease
• Anemia

Summary

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