Nail biting is a common habit. A lot of people tend to bite their finger nails when nervous and anxious. It is a good way to reduce their stress. However, nail biting affects 30 percent of adults, 45 percent of teens and 30 percent of children. It can invite bacteria to enter the body and the blood, increasing your chances of catching a cold or the flu, according to the Mayo Clinic. Not to mention that it can ruin your smile.
The most common virus hiding under your nails is staphylococcus, which can enter the body through breaks in your skin after you bite your nails. If that is not enough a warning, just imagine parasites, hanging out in your nail tissue as you open mouth and put in your finger. So next time the anxiety comes in, try taking five deep breaths instead.
According to the Center for Disease Control, there are more than 200 cold viruses floating around at any given time. You may get one because of exposure to the sick. However, you can reduce your chances of catching a virus by keeping your hands away from your mouth. Viruses that cause the cold are active on your skin as well, so often wash your hands with soap and water, and avoid nail biting by chewing gum.
Nail biting can also damage the teeth. Check with your dentist whether having a mouth guard can help you to stop biting your nails or at least reduce some of the damage it can cause. She may be able to suggest some other ways to help you give up the habit for good.
【小题1】Who is most likely to be affected by nail biting?| A．The 16-year-old Bob. | B．The second grader Gene. |
| C．The seven-month-old Jane. | D．The mother of five children, Kate. |
| A．You should be careful of the nail. | B．Nail biting harms your health a lot. |
| C．Deep breaths are useful to keep calm. | D．People lack warnings about biting nails. |
| A．Avoiding chewing gum. | B．Washing your face often. |
| C．Going to a dentist often. | D．Staying away from the sick. |
| A．Nail Biting Is a Common Habit | B．Nail Biting Can Reduce Stress Well |
| C．Nail Biting Ruins Your Health and Smile | D．Nail Biting Should Be Checked with a Dentist |
