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Facts on Fructose

Fructose is a natural sweetener with many hidden benefits. Used as a food additive to increase shelf life and retain moisture, fructose is essential in many of the foods we eat. (Ref. 2.)

  1. Identification

    • Fructose is a simple sugar made from fruits, honey, vegetables, and even certain plants. Also know as fruit sugar, fructose contains carbohydrates, which are a necessary source of energy for the human body. (Ref. 1.)

    History

    • Fructose was first marketed as a health supplement. The pure crystalline form of fructose was not made available for use in food and beverages until approximately 20 years ago. (Ref. 1.)

    Uses

    • Fructose is added to foods such as cookies, cakes, and beverages to add sweetness. It is also used in many baked goods to add a golden brown appearance. (Ref. 3.)

    Benefits

    • Fructose has a low glycemic index, making it less likely to cause spikes in insulin than sucrose or glucose. Fructose is also less likely to cause cavities than any other type of nutritive sugar. (Ref. 2.)

    Misconceptions

    • Fructose is often confused with high fructose corn syrup, which is a mixture of fructose and other sugars. Pure fructose consumed at normal dietary levels has shown none of the negative effects found in high fructose corn syrup. (Ref. 4.)

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