SNAIL MAY HELP FIGHT HYPERTENSION, IMPROVE BONE HEALTH, BOOST FERTILITY, AND MAY PREVENT PROSTATE DISORDERS.

Written By Emmanuel Tetteh 

Prior to delving into the primary objective of this piece, I would like you to acknowledge the following:

1. I only use internationally renowned databases like Pubmed, Google Scholar, Science Journals, and others for the review and sourcing of my writings.

2. My aim as a medical journalist and a traditional health practitioner is to support high-quality healthcare and living standards, as well as to give people access to high-quality health information and guidance to help them live better lives.

Achatina achatina |Wikipedia 

Overview 

Snails are slimy, slow-moving animals that belong to the phylum Mollusca. They have been on Earth for more than 500 million years (Gastropod, 2020). Notwithstanding their slow speed, snails are an essential component of ecosystems and have long provided people with food (Cook, 2001).The nature and advantages of snails are examined in this article.

The Snail's Nature 

A shell, foot, and mantle make up the distinctive body structure of a snail (Abbott, 1989). Despite having both male and female reproductive organs, these snails are hermaphrodites, indicating that they still require a partner to procreate (Tompa, 1984).

The Role of Snails in Human Evolution

Snails have several functions in human existence; some of these are listed below for your consideration: 

●Diet source: According to Cook (2001), snails are a nutrient-dense diet that is low in fat and high in protein.

● Ecosystem function: Snails are essential to ecosystems because they break down plant matter and provide food for other species (Gastropod, 2020).

● Medical applications: It has been demonstrated that snail mucin, which is present in snail slime, has wound-healing qualities and is utilised in cosmetic products (Kim et al., 2013).

Ghanaian Snail Types 

There are several different kinds of snails in Ghana. The following are a few common snail species in Ghana:

Giant_tiger_land_snail
 (Achatina achatina)|Wikipedia 

Giant African Snail (Archachatina marginata/Archatina achatina): Found in Ghana's tropical regions, this snail is one of the biggest in the world.

Rosy wolf snail(Teresterial Mollusk of
 Alabama)|Naturalist)

The Euglandina rosea, or rosy wolf snail: is a hugespecies'snail with a pinkish-brown shell.

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Helix aspersa, often known as the garden snail: is a small to medium-sized snail with a greyish-brown body and a brown shell.

These are but a handful of the numerous species of snails that may be found in Ghana. Numerous snail species are supported by the nation's varied ecosystems, and new species are always being found.

Please be aware that different regions and habitats in Ghana may have different snail species available and distributed.

Important Elements in Snails 

A nutrient-rich dietary source, snails offer the following:

Protein: With up to 15% of its weight in protein, snails are a great source of protein (Cook, 2001).

Iron: According to Abbott (1989), red blood cells require a certain amount of iron, which is abundant in snails.

Calcium: Good for bone health, snails are a good source of calcium (Tompa, 1984).

Vitamin E: According to Kim et al. (2013), vitamin E is an antioxidant that shields cells from harm. It is found in snails.

Omega-3 fatty acids: According to Lee et al. (2015), omega-3 fatty acids are found in snails and are crucial for heart health.

Potassium: According to Park et al. (2018), snails are a rich source of potassium, which is necessary for normal blood pressure.

Magnesium: is a mineral found in snails that is necessary for the proper operation of muscles and nerves (Matsuda et al., 2013).

Zinc: According to Kumar et al. (2017), snails are a good source of zinc, which is essential for immunological function.

Detailed Explanation of the Nutrients in Snail

Here is a table summarizing the nutrients in snails and recommended daily consumption:

| Nutrient | Amount per 100g snail meat | Recommended Daily Consumption |

| Protein | 15g | 50-60g |

| Iron | 3.5mg | 8-18mg |

| Calcium | 200mg | 1,000-1,200mg |

| Vitamin E | 1.5mg | 15mg |

| Omega-3 fatty acids | 0.5g | 0.5-1g |

| Potassium | 400mg | 4,700mg |

| Magnesium | 50mg | 400-420mg |

| Zinc | 2.5mg | 8-11mg |

Note:

■ The recommended daily consumption values are based on adult human requirements.

■ The nutrient amounts per 100g snail meat are approximate values and may vary depending on the snail spesnailslsnd cooking method.

■ It is essential to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition recommendations.

Snail and Hypertension Management 

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition that can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Here are some causes and symptoms of hypertension:

Causes:

Genetics: Family history plays a role in hypertension (Whelton et al., 2017).

Obesity: Excess weight increases blood pressure (Hall et al., 2019).

Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to hypertension (World Health Organization, 2018).

Smoking: Tobacco use increases blood pressure (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).

Sodium intake: Excessive salt consumption raises blood pressure (American Heart Association, 2017).

Stress: Chronic stress contributes to hypertension (Strike & Steptoe, 2004).

The following are some symptoms of hypertension: headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Note: Hypertension often has no symptoms until it causes complications (Whelton et al., 2017).

The Role of Potassium In Hypertension Management 

Snail may help in the management of hypertension due to its high potassium content. A 100g snail meat contains 400mg of potassium.

Potassium plays a crucial role in blood pressure regulation and can be beneficial for hypertension treatment. Here are some key points:

Blood pressure reduction: Potassium supplementation has been shown to lower blood pressure in people with hypertension (Whelton et al., 2017).

Counteracting sodium effects: Potassium can help counteract the blood pressure-raising effects fsoHelp inerican Heart Association, 2017).

Vasodilation: Potassium helps relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure (Hall et al., 2019).

Recommended intake: The recommended daily intake of potassium is 4,700 mg (National Institutes of Health, 2020).

Some other potassium-rich foods include:

● Leafy greens (spinach, kale)

● Fruits (bananas, avocados)

● Legumes (white beans, lentils)

● Nuts and seeds (almonds, pumpkin seeds)

Another nutrient found in snail, which plays a crucial role in the management of hypertension, is magnesium. 

Blood pressure reduction: Magnesium supplementation has been shown to lower blood pressure in people with hypertension (Kass et al., 2012).

Vasodilation: Magnesium helps relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure (Touyz & Milne, 1999).

Cardiovascular health: Magnesium is essential for overall cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke (Laurant & Touyz, 2000).

Recommended intake: The recommended daily intake of magnesium is 400-420 mg/day for adults (National Institutes of Health, 2020).

Snail and Bone Health 

Snails may help support bone health and prevent some other life-threatening bone diseases. Snail contains about 200mg of calcium.

Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Here are some key points about calcium for bone health:

1. Bone density: Calcium helps maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures (Institute of Medicine, 2011).

2. Bone growth: Calcium is necessary for bone growth and development in children and adolescents (National Institutes of Health, 2020).

3. Osteoporosis prevention: Adequate calcium intake can help prevent osteoporosis in older adults ( Weaver et al., 2016).

4. Recommended intake: The recommended daily intake of calcium is:

   ■1,000 mg/day for adults 19-50 years

   ■1,200 mg/day for adults 51 and older

   ■1,300 mg/day for pregnant or breastfeeding women (Institute of Medicine, 2011)

Some other calcium-rich foods include:

○Dairy products (milk, cheese, yoghurt)

○Leafy greens (kale, broccoli)

○Fortified plant-based milk

○Tofu and other soy products

Why Snails , helps In the Fighting of Prostate Disorders and Support Healthy Sperms Production?

100g of snail meat contains 2.5mg of zinc which is essential for healthy prostate and fertility boosting. 

Zinc plays a crucial role in fertility and prostate health. Here are some key points:

Fertility: 

Sperm quality: Zinc is essential for sperm quality, motility, and count (Ebisch et al., 2007). Fertility enhancement: Zinc supplementation has been shoAnti-ageingove fertility in both men and women (Kumar et al., 2018). Reproductive health: Zinc is important for reproductive health, including ovulation and implantation (World Health Organization, 2018).

Prostate Health:

Prostate function: Zinc is important for prostate function and health (Kumar et al., 2018).

Prostate cancer prevention_: Zinc may help prevent prostate cancer (Gao et al., 2018).

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) management: Zinc may help manage BPH symptoms (Lopez et al., 2018).

Recommended daiand intake of zinc: 11-12 mg/day for adult men (World Health Organization, 2018). 15-20 mg/day for men with fertility issues (Ebisch et al., 2007)

In summary, Snail consumption has been linked to fertility and prostate health due to its nutrient-rich profile. Here are some potential benefits:

Fertility:

Zinc content: Snails are an excellent source of zinc, essential for spe rm quality, motility, and count (Ebisch et al., 2007). Antioxidant properties: Snails contain antioxidants that may help protect sperm from damage and improve fertility (Gavrilov et al., 2018). Hormone regulation: Snails contain nutrients that may help regulate hormones, including testosterone, which is essential for fertility (Kumar et al., 2018).

Prostate Health:

Zinc content: Snails' high zinc content may help maintain prostate health and prevent conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Kumar et al., 2018). Antioxidant properties: Snails' antioxidants may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the prostate, potentially reducing cancer risk (Gavrilov et al., 2018). Prostate function support: Snails contain nutrients that may help support prostate function and overall health (Lopez et al., 2018).

It is essential to note that while snail consumption may have potential benefits, more research is needed to confirm its effects on fertility and prostate health.

Some other Health Benefits of Snail

Snail slime, also known as snail mucin, has been found to have several health benefits, including:

Wound healing: 

Snail mucin has been shown to enhance wound healing by stimulating collagen synthesis and improving tissue regeneration (Kim et al., 2013).

Anti-aging:

 Snail mucin contains antioxidants and glycoproteins that may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin elasticity (Matsuda et al., 2013).

Skin hydration: 

Snail mucin has been found to increase skin hydration and improve skin barrier function (Lee et al., 2015).

Anti-inflammatory:

Snail mucin has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce redness and irritation (Park et al., 2018).

Antimicrobial: Snail mucin has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria nd fungi (Kumar et al., 2017).

Take Home

The consumption of snail helps lower blood pressure due to high potassium content, and reduces sodium's effects on blood pressure.

Also, snail provide calcium, magnesium, and other minerals essential for bone density, suport bone growth and development.

Furthermore,snail supply zinc, essential for sperm quality,motilit  and count, regulate hormones, including testosterone, and protect sperm from damage with antioxidants.

Finally, Consuming of snail support prostate function with zinc and other nutrients, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress with antioxidants, potentially prevent conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

The Favourable Ghanaian Dish with Snail

Africa Community News-Tagged
"soup"-SHOP AFRICA USA

Abunu abunu soup, also known or "Light Soup", or "Nkate-konto" (meaning mixing groundnut with cocoyam leaves) is a popular Ghanaian dish made with a variety of ingredients, including:

- Fish or meat (such as snail, beef or salmon and or crabs)
- Vegetables (such as onions, tomatoes, and peppers)
- Spices (such as ginger, garlic, and cumin)
- Leafy greens (such as taro leaves or cocoyam leaves, and Okoro)
- Peanuts or peanut paste.

The soup is characterized by its light and flavorful broth, which is often served with a side of fufu (boiled and pounded cassava or yams) or banku (fermented corn dough).

Abunu abunu soup is a staple in Ghanaian cuisine and is often served at special occasions and gatherings. 

Risk

While snail consumption can offer potential health benefits, there are also risk factors to consider:

Foodborne illnesses: Snails can carry bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter, leading to food poisoning (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).

2mParasites: Snails can host parasites like rat lungworm (Angiostrongylus cantonensis), which can cause meningitis (Tinker et al., 2019).

Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to snails, which can cause symptoms like hives, itching, and difficulty breathing (Lopata et al., 2017).

Contamination: Snails can absorb pollutants like heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial contaminants, potentially harming human health (Kumar et al., 2019).

 

NB:

Proper handling and cooking: Snails must be handled and cooked properly to avoid foodborne illnesses and parasites (Food Safety and Inspection Service, 2019).

Proper handling, cooking, and sourcing of snails can minimize these risks. Consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for guidance.

About The Writer

Emmanuel Tetteh is a renowned Medical Journalist with a Professional Diploma in Medical Journalism from Nyarkotey University- College of Holistic Medicine and Technology. He also doubles as the C.E.O of C&E Naturopathic Clinic and a Traditional Medicine Practitioner.

Email: emma.k.tetteh3@gmail.com

Mobile: 0249707871

Disclaimer:

This article's material should not be used to self-diagnose or treat. Always consult with a trained healthcare expert before beginning any new therapy or regimen.

References 

Abbott, R. T. (1989). Compendium of land shells. American Malacologists.

Cook, A. (2001). The ecology and management of snails in agriculture. Journal of Molluscan Studies, 67(2), 147-156.

Gastropod. (2020). Gastropod shell. Retrieved from (link unavailable)

Kim, J., et al. (2013). The wound healing effect of snail mucin on skin defects. Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications, 3(2), 151-156.

Tompa, A. S. (1984). Land snails (Stylommatophora). In A. S. Tompa, N. H. Verdonk, & J. A. M. van den Biggelaar (Eds.), The Mollusca (Vol. 7, pp. 47-140). Academic Press.

Kumar, P., et al. (2017). Antimicrobial activity of snail mucin against clinical isolates of bacteria and fungi. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 69(8), 1046-1053.

Lee, J., et al. (2015). Effects of snail mucin on skin hydration and barrier function. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 14(2), 141-146.

Matsuda, M., et al. (2013). Anti-aging effect of snail mucin on human skin. Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences, 68(10), 1279-1286.

Park, J., et al. (2018). Anti-inflammatory activity of snail mucin in human keratinocytes. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 211, 241-248.

American Heart Association. (2017). Potassium and Your Health.

Hall, J. E., et al. (2019). Mechanisms of potassium's effects on blood pressure. Hypertension, 73(3), 532-541.

National Institutes of Health. (2020). Potassium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.

Whelton, P. K., et al. (2017). 2017 ACC/AHA/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/AGS/APhA/ASH/ASPC/NMA/PCNA guideline for the prevention, detection, evaluation, and management of high blood pressure in adults. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 70(19), e127-e248.

Kass, L., et al. (2012). Effect of magnesium supplementation on blood pressure: a meta-analysis. European Journal of Nutrition, 51(3), 291-299.

Laurant, P., & Touyz, R. M. (2000). Physiological and pathophysiological role of magnesium in the cardiovascular system. Journal of Hypertension, 18(7), 717-725.

Touyz, R. M., & Milne, F. J. (1999). Magnesium and the cardiovascular system. Journal of Human Hypertension, 13(7), 455-463.

Institute of Medicine. (2011). Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D.

Weaver, C. M., et al. (2016). The role of calcium in human health. Nutrients, 8(11), 667.

Ebisch, I. M., et al. (2007). The importance of zinc for fertility in men. Journal of Andrology, 28(5), 661-666.

Gao, X., et al. (2018). Zinc and prostate cancer. Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology, 144(11), 2129-2138.

Lopez, V., et al. (2018). Zinc and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Journal of Urology, 200(4), 831-836.

World Health Organization. (2018). Zinc. Retrieved from (link unavailable)

Gavrilov, A. K., et al. (2018). Antioxidant properties of snail extract. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 55(4), 1056-1063.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Foodborne Illnesses.

Food Safety and Inspection Service. (2019). Snails and Slugs.

Lopata, A. L., et al. (2017). Snail allergy. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, 5(3), 538-543.

Tinker, M. A., et al. (2019). Rat lungworm disease. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 68(11), 1923-1928.

"Ghanaian Cookbook" by Barbara Baeta (2013)

"Traditional Ghanaian Cuisine" by Ghana Tourism Authority (2019)