Final answer:
Split nails can be linked to a lack of essential nutrients, mainly vitamin B12, folate, and iron, leading to various types of anemia, including megaloblastic and pernicious anemia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Split nails are often associated with a deficiency in certain essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12, folate, and iron. These deficiencies can lead to a condition known as megaloblastic anemia, which is characterized by diets lacking in vitamin B12 and folate. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also be part of pernicious anemia, which is related to poor absorption of this nutrient and can be common in patients with certain intestinal disorders or after some forms of surgery. Additionally, iron deficiency anemia can cause health problems with nails due to insufficient intake or absorption of iron, which is crucial for healthy nail growth.