Fructose Intolerance is a digestive disorder where the body is unable to properly metabolize fructose, a type of sugar found in many foods, especially fruits. This results in symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and flatulence after consuming fructose-containing foods.
Key Findings
- Fructose intolerance is a digestive disorder where the body is unable to properly metabolize fructose, a type of sugar found in many foods, especially fruits.
- Symptoms of fructose intolerance can include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and flatulence.
- Fructose intolerance can be diagnosed with a hydrogen breath test, genetic test, or fructose challenge test.
Recommendations
- Avoid or limit high fructose fruits such as apples, pears, mangoes, and watermelon.
- Avoid or limit foods that contain high fructose corn syrup, such as soft drinks, candy, and baked goods.
- Read food labels carefully and look for ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, agave nectar, and honey.
Fructose intolerance occurs when the body lacks an enzyme called fructose 1-phosphate aldolase, which is responsible for breaking down fructose. As a result, fructose accumulates in the small intestine and causes osmotic diarrhea, meaning that fluid moves into the intestine, leading to an increased volume of watery stool.
To diagnose fructose intolerance, a healthcare professional may conduct a hydrogen breath test. This test measures the amount of hydrogen in the breath, which increases when fructose is not properly absorbed in the gut. A fructose intolerance diagnosis may also be made through a genetic test or by conducting a fructose challenge test, where the patient is asked to consume a large amount of fructose and their symptoms are monitored.
The best way to manage fructose intolerance is to limit the amount of fructose in the diet. This includes avoiding or limiting high fructose fruits such as apples, pears, mangoes, and watermelon. The person should also avoid or limit foods that contain high fructose corn syrup such as soft drinks, candy, and baked goods.
It is important to note that while fructose is found in many fruits, it is also found in many other foods, including some that might not be immediately obvious. Therefore, it is important to read food labels carefully and look for ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, agave nectar, and honey.
In addition to avoiding fructose, it is also essential to include other sources of carbohydrates in the diet such as complex carbohydrates, like whole grains, and simple carbohydrates like glucose. A registered dietitian can work with clients to create a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs while avoiding fructose.
Conclusion
Fructose intolerance is a digestive disorder that requires careful management of the diet to minimize symptoms. By avoiding foods high in fructose and including other sources of carbohydrates, individuals with fructose intolerance can lead a healthy and balanced life.
Actionable takeaways:
- Avoid or limit high fructose fruits such as apples, pears, mangoes, and watermelon.
- Avoid or limit foods that contain high fructose corn syrup, such as soft drinks, candy, and baked goods.
- Read food labels carefully and look for ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, agave nectar, and honey.
- Include other sources of carbohydrates in the diet such as complex carbohydrates and simple carbohydrates.
- Consult a registered dietitian to create a balanced diet that meets your nutritional needs while avoiding fructose.