Diet For Fructose Intolerance

Fructose intolerance occurs when you lack an enzyme to process fructose or your body simply cannot absorb it efficiently. Fructose, the natural sugar in fruit, is found in many foods, both natural and processed. A diet for fructose intolerance can reduce unpleasant symptoms for many. However, children with hereditary fructose intolerance may need additional medical treatment.

More About Fructose

Fructose is found in a number of natural and processed, commercial foods. The sugar that occurs naturally in fruits, honey and syrups is fructose, explains Mayo Clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky. Fructose is also present in granulated cane sugar, also known as sucrose. Food manufacturers use it as a sweetener in numerous processed food items and drinks found at the grocery story. A substitute sweetener called sorbitol also converts to fructose during the digestive process.

Fructose Intolerance

Fructose intolerance is a term used to describe two distinctly different medical conditions that share similar symptoms. Hereditary fructose intolerance is a condition in which a person lacks an enzyme called aldolase B, which is needed to break down fructose. Most people with this type of fructose intolerance begin to show signs and symptoms when they're babies, according to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH. This condition can be serious, causing damage to the liver and kidneys. Another type of fructose intolerance is fructose malabsorption, or dietary fructose intolerance. Dietary fructose intolerance is far less serious, but it can still result in uncomfortable symptoms, such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhea, said Zeratsky.

Fructose Elimination

A diet for fructose intolerance is one in which the main culprit -- fructose -- is assiduously avoided. According to Zeratsky, foods to avoid include any that contain fructose, high-fructose corn syrup, sucrose, powdered sugar, fruit, fruit juices, honey, regular sweetened sodas, flavored waters, sports drinks, sweetened milk and foods that contain sorbitol. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, which developed its own fructose-restricted diet, also integrates dextrose into the diet. Dextrose, a simple sugar, binds to free fructose in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing symptoms of fructose intolerance. Dextrose isn't widely available in most American markets, although it can be purchased at some health food markets; Asian, African and European markets; and wine-making supply shops.

Cautions

A fructose-restricted diet eliminates many foods, as well as many essential vitamins and minerals. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics recommends a daily multivitamin, along with additional vitamin C tablets and vitamin E complex. Fructose or sorbitol may be added as a filler in dietary supplements, and even nonprescription medications; read labels carefully and consult with your pharmacist if you have questions.

Other Information

A diet for hereditary fructose intolerance can benefit many children, according to the NIH, but some with the more severe form of the disorder can develop serious complications, such as liver disease, in which case a fructose-restricted diet alone isn't effective. Zeratsky said fructose intolerance should be diagnosed by your doctor. If you have fructose intolerance and are concerned that you're not getting the right nutrients from your meals, a dietitian can design a diet plan that's right for you.