The periwinkle is a species of small edible whelk or sea snail, that has gills and an operculum.
Found in many parts of the world, they are considered a delicacy in most African and Asian cuisines. In Nigeria, they are native to the Niger Delta region, especially Akwa Ibom state, and are commonly used in several delicacies like Edikang Ikong and Afang soup.
If you have been eating periwinkle and you do not know the health benefits, now is the time to find out.
Here are some health benefits:
1. Protein
Periwinkle provides a low-calorie source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle, and is also better at filling you up than other carbohydrate-filled meals and fats. Many people look to seafood as an easy source of protein, but in fact, periwinkles have more.
2. Iron
Periwinkles are also a good source of iron, essential for building red blood cells and carrying energy around the body. A lack of iron in the body will lead to extreme fatigue and anemia.
3. Vitamins
Vitamin B12 is often called the ‘energy vitamin,’ and it is mostly needed for making red blood cells, keeping the nervous system healthy, releasing energy from the food we eat, and processing folic acid. Luckily, periwinkles have lots of it.
It contains many core vitamins that are imperative for the body’s functions, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Vitamin B1, B3, B6, and B12. Vitamin A benefits the health of the eyes, while Vitamin E can act as an antioxidant or helps to improve reproductive health. Then vitamin B1, B3, B6, and B12 are essential vitamins needed to prevent and control diabetes. Other B complex vitamins like niacin and folate are also present in periwinkle.
Niacin has a role in carbohydrate metabolism to produce energy, and folate is also good for pregnant women in developing a healthy fetus.
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4. Magnesium
Periwinkles are also a good source of magnesium, which our bodies need to maintain normal blood pressure and strengthen bones, and they also keep our heartbeat regular.
5. Selenium
Selenium is a nutrient that fights diseases such as cancer, reproductive diseases, and heart disease.
It works together with vitamin E to form a very powerful antioxidant that helps to prevent the aging and deterioration of tissues through oxidation.
6. Omega-3
Periwinkles have heart-loving fatty acids. They also supply a little Omega-3, which is good news for your heart.
Although they contain nowhere near the levels found in oily fish, they are still a fabulous source of omega-3.
7. Choline
Periwinkles also contain choline. Choline is a key component of the nervous system, and this nutrient is important for maintaining brain function.
