How nucleic acids from salmon and yeast stop cancer in its tracks

Scientists have recently discovered some new ingredients in common foods that can help prevent the growth of cancer. In particular, nucleic acids found in foods such as salmon and yeast can prevent tumor cells from replicating, offering a promising way to prevent cancer through diet. Associate Professor Akiko Kojima-Yuasa at Osaka Metropolitan University led this exciting research, and there is still lots more to do.

How nucleic acids fight cancer

We find nucleic acids, the building blocks of DNA and RNA, in all living organisms. When consumed through food, they break down into nucleotides and nucleosides, which play a role in various physiological functions, including boosting the immune system and, as new research suggests, inhibiting cancer cell growth.

One of the key findings from this research involves nucleosides such as guanosine, which were isolated from salmon milt DNA and torula yeast RNA. Scientists tested these compounds in laboratory models, where they prevented cancer cells from entering their replication phase, effectively stalling their growth.​

Salmon and yeast: cancer-fighting superfoods?

Salmon is good for the heart and has plenty of healthy omega fats that help with everything from depression to boosting your immune system. Now, research shows that it also contains plenty of healthy nucleic acids that can prevent the growth of cancer.

Similarly, torula yeast, a common food additive, showed comparable anti-cancer properties. You will find this additive in everything from snack food to gravy, so keep an eye on the ingredients list to see if you can spot it. Sometimes, it’s hidden under natural flavorings. You can also purchase it online and manually add it to your foods to ensure you’re getting enough.

The future of cancer prevention through diet

While the research is still in its early stages, these findings offer hope for the potential for diet-based cancer prevention, and they put some power in our hands to do something about our health.

How much salmon and torula yeast do I need to eat to fight cancer?

The exact amount of cancer-fighting foods like salmon and yeast that you should consume for optimal benefits still needs to be worked out through research, but consciously adding it to your diet is likely a good idea.

Salmon

The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fatty fish like salmon per week, which is about 3.5 ounces (100 grams) per serving. This amount should provide a good balance of omega-3 fatty acids and other beneficial nutrients, including the nucleic acids found in salmon milt that may have cancer-fighting properties.

Torula yeast

Yeast is a common flavor enhancer and nutritional supplement. While there is no established specific daily intake of torula yeast for cancer prevention, nutritional yeast (a related product) is typically consumed in amounts of 1-2 tablespoons per day to provide a boost of proteins, B vitamins, and potentially beneficial nucleic acids​.

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