Pregnant women are often advised by elders to avoid eating snails as it is believed to cause excessive drooling or even speech issues in their unborn children. But is there any truth to this claim? Let’s find out!
1. Is it true that eating snails during pregnancy will cause the baby to drool excessively?
According to Dr. Dinh Tran Ngoc Mai from the Department of Nutrition – Dietetics at Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy, there is no scientific evidence linking snail consumption during pregnancy to excessive drooling in infants. This is, therefore, a misconception that pregnant women should not be concerned about.
Will eating snails during pregnancy cause the baby to drool?
2. Benefits of eating snails during pregnancy
Snails are an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Calcium also plays a crucial role in the formation of the baby’s cardiovascular and nervous systems. Pregnant women who do not get enough calcium may experience fatigue, muscle pain, cramps, tingling in the limbs, and even seizures in severe cases.
Additionally, snail meat has a cooling and sweet property in traditional medicine. It is believed to aid in the treatment of jaundice, liver diseases, hemorrhoids, infections, and promoting overall health and blood circulation.
Benefits of eating snails during pregnancy
3. Precautions when eating snails during pregnancy
While snails are nutritious for pregnant women, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:
- Snails live in aquatic environments and can carry parasites and worms, so it is crucial to ensure they are thoroughly cooked before consumption and avoid eating them raw or undercooked.
- Purchase snails from a reliable source and prepare them at home to ensure their freshness and minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
- Before cooking, soak the snails in rice water with a few slices of ginger to help eliminate any impurities and parasites.
- Avoid overeating snails as it may cause digestive issues. It is recommended to consume snails in moderation, limiting it to once or twice a week.
Precautions when eating snails during pregnancy
In conclusion, there is no truth to the claim that eating snails during pregnancy will cause the baby to drool excessively. However, pregnant women can still enjoy snails as long as they are well-cooked and consumed in moderation.
Source: Sức khỏe và Đời sống Newspaper
