Brittle Fingernails for Guitar Players: Causes & Solutions

Question
Hi Charles, I'm a guitar player, age 64. I use my fingernails to pluck and strum the guitar strings. Lately they have become brittle and break off making playing difficult. I looked at gelatin capsules but the label recommends 6 a day and that seems excessive. Is there anything else I can do? thanks. Mike

Answer
Hi Mike,
This sort of thing is a factor of aging and vitamin deficiency. I would take a multivitamin along with gelatin caps (although there is mixed opinion as to their effectiveness). Keep your nails well groomed and if necessary, a coating of clear nail polish will aid in strengthening them. Just be sure to clean it off and reapply weekly.