If you’re worried the white spots on your nails could be a sign of a nutrient deficiency, then you can take a sigh of relief – Dr Lynch says that’s likely not the cause.

“The jury is out on this one – some doctors believe that a calcium or zinc deficiency may cause white spots on the nail, but there is limited evidence,” he explains. “Either way, it is not likely to be a common cause.”

It’s worth noting that calcium deficiency can be serious, so if you are worried you’re low on calcium and have been experiencing the common symptoms of calcium deficiency – such as weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps and numbness or tingling in the fingertips or jawline – it’s worth paying a visit to your GP who will be able to investigate.

“Are the white spots under my nails a sign of calcium deficiency?” A dermatologist explains