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Signs & Symptoms of a Fructose Allergy

Individuals who suffer from uncomfortable symptoms after ingesting fructose may wonder if they have a fructose allergy, when in fact, they are suffering from fructose intolerance. According to the Food Reactions Organization, fructose intolerance occurs when the body fails to properly metabolize fructose due to a deficiency of an enzyme Aldolase B that is required in glucose synthesis.

  1. Signs

    • Upon physical examination, individuals suffering from fructose intolerance will exhibit signs of jaundice, yellowing of skin, and icterus, yellowing of the eyes. Additionally, an aversion and avoidance of sweet substances may also be a sign of intolerance.

    Mild Symptoms

    • There are varying degrees of symptoms in individuals with fructose intolerance. Mild symptoms include irritability, vomiting, irritable bowel syndrome, convulsions and excessive sleepiness. In infants, fructose-intolerant symptoms may present as increased or prolonged neonatal jaundice and poor feeding habits, especially after the introduction of infant formula or food.

    Severe Symptoms

    • Severe symptoms from fructose intolerance are also related to liver disease. These include chronic fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite and/or abdominal swelling and pain. Enlargement of the liver and spleen, called hepatosplenomegaly, are also signs found during an examination that can aid in the diagnosis of fructose intolerance.

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