A sugar called Neu5Gc, found in red meat, some fish and dairy products, could cause spontaneous tumors in humans. Researchers at the University of Nevada analyzed the evolutionary history of the CMAH gene.
About two million years ago, humans experienced a genetic change that made us different from most primates. This development has protected us against certain diseases, but has made everyday consumer products, such as red meat, pose a high risk to health. The manager ? The CMAH gene which allows the synthesis of this sugar. This carbohydrate is found in red meat, some fish and dairy products. If humans consume products derived from animals that carry the gene, the body undergoes an immune response to the sugar. This can be the cause of inflammation, arthritis and even tumors and cancers, such as those found in the colon in connection with the consumption of red meat.
Species more dangerous than others
So far, very few species of fish have been studied to find out whether or not they have toxic amounts of sugar. The analyzes show that some fish carry the CMAH gene. It turns out that caviar, one of the most expensive dishes in the world, is also one of the most concentrated products in Neu5Gc.
Like humans, birds do not have a CMAH gene, just like chicken, turkey, or duck. The same is true of reptiles, with the exception of one species of lizard.
” Determining in which groups and at what times of evolution the CMAH gene has been deactivated is essential to know which species are most likely to contain the toxic Neu5Gcy sugar. », Assures the research director.
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