Snails are found almost everywhere, even in gardens where there are most unwanted, and are even tagged as pests in some parts of the world!
Here in Nigeria, these speed deficient creatures are a culinary delicacy. Although repulsive to some people, snails are very healthy to eat, with so many nutritional benefits.
An average snail is composed of 80% water, 15% protein and 2.4% fat. They contain essential fatty acids, calcium, iron, selenium, magnesium and are a rich source of vitamins E, A, K and B12.
Check out six interesting benefits why snails should be blazing a trail to your plate!
1. Iron
They are good sources of iron, essential for building red blood cells and carrying energy around the body. A lack of iron can lead to extreme fatigue and anaemia
2. Protein
Snails do provide a low calorie source of protein (unless you drench them in butter)
Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle, and is also better at filling you up than carbs and fat. Many people look to seafood as an easy source of protein, but actually, snails have more.
3. Vitamin B12
The energy vitamin, B12, is one of the many benefits you’d derive from eating snails, as B12 is needed for making red blood cells, keeping the nervous system healthy, releasing energy from the food we eat and processing folic acid. Luckily, snails have lots of it.
4. Selenium
We don’t need too much selenium in our bodies, but we do need some to keep a healthy immune system and to protect cells against damage. And yes, it contains selenium.
5. Magnesium
Snails are also a good source of magnesium, which our bodies need to maintain a normal blood pressure, strengthen bones and also keep your heartbeat regular.
6. Omega-3
Ah, the much-feted, heart-loving fatty acids. “Snails also supply a little Omega-3, which is good news for your heart.
Make an effort to up your snail intake today 😀
Let us know what you think of snails in the comments section!
