(Image source from: What does your nail say?})

At salons, nails are a big biz! Most of us don't mind frittering big cash on manicures and pedicures to keep our talons ship-shape. But then the big question is do pretty nails really indicate good health? No, says experts.

Beneath all the paint and polish, your digits are the windows to your real health. The more transparent and pink, the better.

“Many health conditions are very visible in the nails,” says John Knox, MD, of Swedish Medical Center in Seattle. “They're a unique indicator because of their partial transparency. Nails can even tell you how long you've been ill, since fingernails need six months to grow, and toenails a full year.”

Knox points out that even nail-biting is a strong indicator of mental anguish. “Patients who are more anxious or obsessive compulsive do tend to bite their nails more frequently," says Dr. Knox.

A slew of diseases can be detected  just by observing the changing colors of your nails. Respiratory disorder and diabetes can cause yellow discoloration, while psoriasis can lead to fungus buildup. Bands, or lines in multiple finger nails are also indicators of ill health.

It's important to pay heed to your nails. Most of the time they are the biggest giveaway of an underlying health condition.

Knox also says that some nail issues have simple explanations: “Poor nutrition will cause brittle nails, but so will aging, excessive washing, and a variety of different things."

AW: Suchorita Dutta