It may be one of the slowest creatures on earth, but snail possesses amazing health benefits that do wonders for the human body when ingested.
File photo: Snail dish
Snail contains a lot of vitamins, protein and amino acids. It is also very high in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, and essential fatty acids.
Here are six reasons to include snail in your meals
1. Good for the brain
Snail is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which assist in the development of the brain and memory of children.
Omega-3 improves brain health because it affects the development of cell membranes in the neurological system.
2. Great source of vitamins
Snail contains vitamins A, E, B1, B3, B6 and B12. Vitamin A is beneficial for the health of the eyes, while vitamin E may act as an antioxidant.
Its omega-3 acid and folate content is also good for pregnant women.
3. Aids bone development
Snail contains high levels of magnesium. Magnesium is needed for more than 325 enzymatic reactions, bone metabolism, neural activity, muscle contraction and relaxation, cardiac activity.
4. Promotes good heart health
Snails are high in potassium and low in sodium thereby making them good for maintaining blood pressure levels and it also reduces the risk of stroke, heart and kidney disease.
5. Fights cancer
An average snail contains glycoprotein which is believed to contain cancer-fighting properties. The mucous exuded by these creatures contain a copper compound which helps in healing after an injury or scalding and also helps in preventing heart disorders.
6. Helps in cell rejuvenation
Snail is high in iron, which is needed by the body to ensure the availability of the required number of blood cells daily. Iron helps in transporting oxygen into the tissues of the lungs and transports electrons in the formation of energy in cells.
Source: TheCable