Why do you get ridges in your fingernail as you get older?

My mom and grandma both have deep ridges in their fingernails now that they are older. I am 32 and have noticed tiny ridges starting in mine to. Anyone know why this is and if there is anything I can do to prevent it further?Why do you get ridges in your fingernail as you get older?
Vertical ridges that appear on the nail can indicate disorders as simple as iron deficiency, poor absorption of vitamins and nutrients, overall poor health or they could indicate something as serious as kidney trouble. These vertical ridges, as well as bumpy nails, can also suggest that one is prone to developing arthritis. Ridges running horizontally across the nail can indicate physical or mental stress.








Nutrition plays an extremely important role in every function of our bodies, right down to the tips of our fingers and toes, literally. As well as signs of other possible disorders, nails can let us know how we add up when it comes to getting all of our required nutrients.








Since nails are mainly made up of protein, they can immediately alert us to a lack of it in our diet. White lined bands across the nail beds can signal a protein dificiency.