A diet for hereditary fructose intolerance may help you or your child manage your medical condition sufficiently, says MedlinePlus. This eating plan eliminates problem foods -- those that contain fructose or sucrose -- from your diet. In many cases, simply avoiding these foods is beneficial; only in severe cases of hereditary fructose intolerance is diet not enough.
About Fructose Intolerance
Hereditary fructose intolerance, also known as fructosemia and fructose aldolase B-deficiency, is often confused with dietary fructose intolerance, or fructose malabsorption. While these two conditions share similar symptoms, they aren't the same, with the latter condition being far less serious. People with hereditary fructose intolerance lack an enzyme called aldolase B, which is needed to change fructose into glucose, says the NIH. If someone with hereditary fructose intolerance consumes fructose or sucrose but lacks the enzyme to process it, this can cause low blood sugar and eventually even liver damage.
Fructose Basics
Fructose, the natural sugar found in fruit, is also used in sweeteners such as high-fructose corn syrup. According to MayoClinic.com nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky, fructose can also be found in honey, natural syrups and table sugar. Another man-made sweetener, sorbitol, turns into fructose during the digestive process. Fructose is an ingredient in many processed foods and drinks.
Diet Factors
A diet for hereditary fructose intolerance can reduce many of the symptoms associated with the condition. Problematic foods are strictly avoided, including those that contain fructose and high-fructose corn syrup, sugar and powdered sugar, fruit and fruit juices, honey, sweetened soda pop, sports drinks, flavored waters, sweetened milk and foods that contain sorbitol, says Zeratsky.
Other Treatment
According to MedlinePlus, hereditary fructose intolerance can be very mild or severe. Most people with this condition show symptoms when they first receive formula or solid foods as babies. Although avoiding fructose and sucrose can be an effective way to manage the condition in most children, sometimes diet alone isn't enough to prevent serious liver disease, says MedlinePlus. Additionally, medical treatment to reduce complications related to hereditary fructose intolerance, such as gout, may be warranted.
Other Information
The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics points out that a fructose-restricted diet cuts out sources of essential minerals you'd get from fruits and vegetables. Zeratsky advises consulting with a nutritionist or dietitian so you know exactly what you can and cannot eat, as well as to develop a healthy eating plan.
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