CHISOM IBEMERE
Snails are shelled Gastropods. They are important to human and may be consumed as food and their shells are used in decorations and in making Jewelries. They can be found in different environments such as ditches, fresh water, deserts. They feed with a tooth-like structure in a ribbon like tongue known as Radula. They may be herbivores, with a few land species and marine specie Omnivores or predatory carnivores. Some species of land snails are agricultural pests while many other species are edible and household pets. Their Mucus are incorporated in skin care products.
Snails contains high concentration of proteins and Amino acids. They are also rich in Iron, Calcium, Vitamin A and other essential minerals. It contains 80% water, 15% protein, 2.4% fats, Selenium, phosphorus, vitamins and minerals. They are healthy food consumed all over the globe. They have anti-inflammatory, anti oxidant and anti cancerous properties and as such boost the immune system.
One amazing quality of snail is it’s Selenium content, which is an element that fights cancers and most heart related diseases and infections. They regulate thyroid hormones and reduces the risk of asthma.
Snail meat is loaded with Vitamin A, E, B1, B3, B6, B12 which plays an important role in the brain and skin health. They are healthy for the eye, breast, liver and testicles. Vitamin E gives protection to the lungs. Snail meat has Iron which helps in ensuring synthesis and circulation of blood round the body.
Snail meat as well as snail water aids stroke prevention by giving a calming effects on the brain. Snail water slows blood pressure and replenishes damaged cells. They reduces the risk of getting heart diseases e.g hypertensions and cardiac arrest. It contains Omega-3 fatty acids which helps to treat various ailment like rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, Lupus etc.
Omega-3 consumption helps the brain to function properly especially in kids. It lowers high cholesterol level, good for sight and good for child growth and development.
Snail consumption provides us with Tryptophan, which is an amino-acid that improves the nitrogen content and helps both in Adult and child’s development. They synthesize niacin that promotes the formation of neurotransmitters.
Traditionally, snail slimes are used in the treatment of skin issues like wounds, acne, eczema. They are used to stimulate, heal, preserve and moisturizes the skin.