How to Treat a Fructose Intolerance

Fructose intolerance could affect more people than previously thought. The condition often goes undiagnosed. But with the proper tools and some research, individuals with fructose intolerance can cure their symptoms.

Instructions

What is it?

• 1

  Fructose is a naturally occurring chemical found in fruits. It is also a man-made chemical used to sweeten food. It is hard to diagnose, but some health experts suggest it affects about 1 in 20,000.

  Two kinds of fructose intolerances:
  • hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI)
  • fructose malabsorption

  The symptoms can be similar, so it is important to determine if there is a family history of fructose intolerance. If there is not, then most likely you just have a problem absorbing fructose into your system. If the latter is the case, your doctor can prescribe medication.
  For hereditary fructose intolerance, symptoms include low sugar levels, which leaves you feeling dizzy or shaky; severe abdominal pain; vomiting; excessive sleepiness; convulsions; and a strong distaste for sweet foods.

• 2

  Why does this happen?
  When a person ingests fructose and has a fructose intolerance, it means the fructose is not properly metabolized. In normal situations, fructose is transformed into fructose-1-phosphate by an enzyme in our systems called fructose-1-phosphate aldolase. Then aldolase B finishes the fructose, converting it to glucose for energy. But in those individuals with fructose intolerance, the aldolase B is missing, allowing fructose to build up in the liver, kidneys and intestine. This limits the glycogen breakdown, causing hypoglycemia or low sugar levels.

• 3

  How to correct it?
  A diet low in fructose, or one that eliminates fructose, is the best way to go, health experts say. Once the fructose is out of the body, the person will feel much better. Foodintol.com offers possible ways to detect a fructose absorption problem. The best way is to cut back on fructose-laden foods, including soft drinks and sweet treats. If you feel better after about a week on the fructose-free diet, then you can consider yourself diagnosed and take the information to your doctor.

  The Mayo Clinic suggests avoiding these foods:
  * Fructose
  * High-fructose corn syrup
  * Table sugar (sucrose)
  * Confectioner's sugar or powdered sugar
  * Fruit and fruit juices
  * Honey
  * Regular sodas
  * Flavored water
  * Sorbitol
  * Sports drinks
  * Sweetened milk or sweetened milk beverages

  For those with hereditary fructose intolerance, a health professional can design a special diet. Fructotab is one of the leading providers of special diets for those with food intolerances.

  While it may be an annoyance, living with hereditary fructose intolerance can be achieved rather easily with the right tools.