What is fructose intolerance?
Fructose intolerance is a condition where the body is unable to properly digest fructose. When someone with fructose intolerance consumes fructose-containing foods, it can lead to stomach pain, bloating, and diarrhea. In extreme cases, it can even result in malnutrition because nutrients cannot be absorbed.
In addition to these symptoms, people with fructose intolerance may also experience stomach pain or cramps due to increased pressure in the intestines caused by gas produced by fructose-consuming bacteria.
What is the cause?
The underlying cause of fructose intolerance is often unknown but may be due to an acquired disorder or an imbalanced gut flora. This disorder can lead to inflammation of the intestinal mucosa and prevent the proper absorption of fructose.
This means that when fructose enters the small intestine, it is not absorbed as quickly as glucose. As a result, the fruit sugar continues to the large intestine, where bacteria are present in large numbers. The bacteria consume the fruit sugar and produce large amounts of gas such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen.
In addition to the symptoms already mentioned above, symptoms of fructose intolerance also include nausea and vomiting after consuming fructose-containing foods. Hidden sources of fructose, such as high-fructose corn syrup, are often found in processed foods and should be avoided by those affected.
How do I find out if I suffer from fructose intolerance?
To diagnose fructose intolerance, your doctor may recommend a breath test or a blood test. If you suspect that you have this condition, it is important to talk to your doctor about dietary changes that can help control the symptoms.
If this condition remains untreated, it can lead to malabsorption of other nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, which can have serious long-term health consequences. Therefore, it is important for affected individuals to see a doctor to receive treatment that helps control their symptoms and improve their overall health.
You can find more interesting information on the topic of intolerances on the page of Greenfood.
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Where does the disease of fructose intolerance come from?
Fructose intolerance is a condition that can either be congenital or develop over the course of a lifetime. The congenital form of fructose intolerance is rare but can cause dangerous hypoglycemia and severe health issues such as fatty liver disease.
Therefore, affected individuals must adhere to a fructose-free diet for their entire lives. In contrast, the form of fructose intolerance that develops over a lifetime is much more common and has different causes. It arises from a disrupted fructose transport system in the intestinal wall, which can be caused by an inflamed intestinal mucosa.
Affected individuals must follow a strict fructose-free diet to avoid further health complications.In addition to avoiding foods containing fructose, it is important to carefully read food labels and watch out for hidden sources of fructose such as high-fructose corn syrup or agave nectar.
Eating out can also be challenging due to the risk of cross-contamination from other fructose-containing ingredients. With careful monitoring and adherence to a strict diet, people with acquired fructose intolerance can still lead a healthy lifestyle.
The different types of fructose intolerance
There are two main forms of fructose intolerance: intestinal fructose intolerance (also known as fructose malabsorption) and hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI). Intestinal fructose intolerance is the most common form of the condition. It occurs when the transport system for fructose in the small intestine is disrupted. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Hereditary fructose intolerance is much rarer than intestinal fructose intolerance and affects individuals from birth. It is caused by an enzyme deficiency that prevents the body from breaking down fructose into simpler sugars. Symptoms may include jaundice, low blood sugar, vomiting, fatigue, and liver damage.
Another form of fructose intolerance is sorbitol intolerance, where the body cannot break down sorbitol, a sugar alcohol found in some fruits and vegetables, into glucose.Symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Fructose intolerance and sorbitol
People with fructose intolerance must also pay attention to their sorbitol consumption. Sorbitol is a sugar substitute that can worsen the symptoms of fructose intolerance because it blocks the absorption of fructose through the intestinal wall. This additive (E420) is often used in a range of products, including industrially manufactured foods, tooth-friendly sweets, as well as diet and light products.
For people with fructose intolerance, it is important to read food labels carefully and avoid all products containing sorbitol. If you are unsure about a product, it is best to contact the manufacturer directly for more information. If you experience any symptoms after consuming a product containing sorbitol, you should definitely speak with your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.
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