Fructose intolerance is a broad term that describes two possible conditions: hereditary fructose intolerance and fructose malabsorption. Fructose intolerance is a genetic disorder that occurs from the lack of an enzyme that breaks down fructose, and can lead to kidney and liver damage. Fructose malabsorption is a less serious condition that occurs in individuals who have difficulty digesting fructose, and manifests itself as abdominal pain, gas and bloating. Treatments aim to remove the source of the problem and treat the complications.
Low Fructose Diet
Fructose is a sugar naturally present in honey, fruit and corn syrup. It is also a component of sucrose, the common table sugar used in foods and beverages. Individuals with fructose intolerance are unable to digest such foods normally. In fact, as per the latest report published by "Science Daily" in October 2010, 62 percent of children with general symptoms such as abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea and constipation may actually be suffering from fructose intolerance. A low fructose diet is an effective treatment for the condition.
It is best to consult a nutritionist to design a diet that may be appropriate for the patient. In general, foods such as table sugar, honey, fruits, juices, processed foods, sodas, sport drinks, sweetened milk and flavored waters should be avoided. A low fructose diet is sufficient to treat most cases of fructose intolerance. According to the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association," 85 percent patients responded positively to diet treatments. However, early detection and prompt treatment is the key, and delays could lead to complications.
Medications
Medications are generally prescribed to treat complications of fructose intolerance. Drugs such as allopurinol and probenecid may be prescribed to lower the levels of uric acid in the blood. Painkillers such as oxycodone or hydrocodone may be prescribed to treat the pain associated with gout, a type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid in joints. An article published in "Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology" found a strong association between fructose intolerance and celiac disease, which involves damage to the lining of the small intestine, and can be treated with a gluten free diet and corticosteroids.
Surgery
According to Boston University, liver transplantation may be required to treat severe damage to the liver from hereditary fructose intolerance. The procedure involves surgical removal and replacement of the liver. A kidney transplant may be required to treat damaged kidneys caused by complications of severe and untreated hereditary fructose intolerance.
References
- ScienceDaily: Fructose Intolerance Common in Children With Functional Abdominal Pain; Low-Fructose Diet Is an Effective Treatment, Study Finds
- "Journal of American Dietetic Association"; Fructose Malabsorption and Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Guidelines for Effective Dietary Management; Susan J. Shepherd et al; October 2006
- "Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology"; Hereditary fructose intolerance and celiac disease: a novel genetic association.; Ciacci C et al; May 2006
- HFI Laboratory at Boston University: HFI Treatment
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