Nutritionists in Nigeria have dismissed a long‑standing belief that eating snails during pregnancy makes babies sluggish, stressing that the mollusk is actually a valuable source of essential minerals.
The myth, which has circulated among some expectant mothers, is not supported by scientific evidence, the experts say, and there is no link between snail consumption and reduced infant activity.
According to the nutritionists, snails provide significant amounts of iron, calcium and zinc – nutrients that are important for both maternal health and fetal development.
Iron helps prevent anemia, calcium supports bone formation, and zinc contributes to immune function, all of which are critical during pregnancy.
Health professionals advise pregnant women to consider incorporating snails into a balanced diet to take advantage of these nutritional benefits.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>