Nucleic acids are complex organic substances—comprised of chains of nucleotides—that occur in all living cells. Two of the most common types of nucleic acids include DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid), the latter of which has several dietary benefits. According to the Gordon Research Institute, these include increased bowel health and liver function. Some foods that contain nucleic acids include seafood, nuts, vegetables, mushrooms, yeast, beef, broths and soups.
Seafood
A number of different seafood options contain nucleic acids, particularly fish. According to the Gordon Research Institute, sardines have the highest levels of nucleic acids, which typically comprise 1.5 percent of the fishes’ total composition. In addition to animal-based seafood options, there are also plant-based foods that contain nucleic acids. According to AGM Foods, chlorella, a type of single-celled algae, is amongst these. The algae are also well known for their high levels of fatty acids and polysaccharides.
Nuts
Nuts are excellent sources of proteins and unsaturated fats, which are good for heart function. According to the Gordon Research Institute, most varieties also have high levels of nucleic acids.
Vegetables
Vegetables are a staple food for proper nutrition, as—according to Harvard University—eating them can help regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and can help prevent stroke, heart disease, digestive troubles, eyesight problems and cancer. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, many vegetables are good sources of nucleic acids. These include Chinese cabbage, broccoli, leeks, spinach, cauliflower, beans and soybeans.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are edible fungi that are known for being low in cholesterol, fat, calories and sodium; and for being high in nutrients like vitamin E and selenium. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, many mushrooms, such as flat, whitecap (button), cep and oyster mushrooms, also have high levels of nucleic acids.
Yeast
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, hydrolyzed and autolyzed yeast, which food companies commonly add into microwavable vegetarian meals, are two strong sources of nucleic acids. They can also help increase your body’s production of purines, which are compounds that oxidize to form uric acid.
Beef
Beef is another good source of nucleic acids. According to the Gordon Research Institute, red meat is the best: and typically has a .05 percent nucleic acid content.
Broths / Soups
According to the Gordon Research Institute, soups and broths that contain vegetables, mushrooms and/or beef are also good sources of nucleic acids.