Fructose is a simple sugar found in most fruits and table sugar. Although fructose doesn't cause any side effects in healthy people, if you are fructose intolerant, you may develop unpleasant symptoms after ingesting it. Diarrhea is a common symptom of fructose intolerance because the condition directly affects the digestive tract. If you notice that every time you eat something containing fructose, especially fruit, you should call your doctor for further evaluation.
Fructose Intolerance
There is no known cause for fructose intolerance, but it is hereditary, according to MedlinePlus. Your digestive tract produces enzymes to break down the sugars and proteins in food as a part of digestion. If you're fructose intolerant your body doesn't make enough of the proper enzymes to digest the fructose. This causes the lining of the intestines to become irritated and inflamed. The irritation in the gastrointestinal tract leads to common food intolerant symptoms.
Symptoms
Diarrhea is a primary symptom of fructose intolerance that is typically accompanied by stomach cramping, pain, gas, fullness, bloating, vomiting, nausea and weight loss, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Severe symptoms can lead to dehydration and malnourishment. When you develop diarrhea, the digestive system fails to perform its job of absorbing the nutrients and water from food and beverages.
About Diarrhea
Diarrhea is consistent, frequent loose and watery stools that form as the result of another medical condition, according to the MayoClinic website. Diarrhea is considered a common and normal medical condition that most people experience in their lifetime. Most cases of diarrhea are considered acute, lasting a short period of time. If you experience diarrhea for more than two days, you should talk with your doctor. Diarrhea resulting from fructose intolerance should not last more than a day. Once the sugar is expelled from the body, the diarrhea subsides shortly thereafter.
Fructose Intolerance Treatment
MedlinePlus states that the most effective treatment is to remove all fructose and sucrose from your diet. Fructose may be difficult to avoid because it is used in many products. Talk with your doctor about safe alternatives.
Treating Diarrhea
Most cases of diarrhea go away with medication. Modifying your diet to encourage the stomach to settle is an important part of treating diarrhea, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Stay away from foods that aggravate the gut, such as spices, caffeine, fatty foods, greasy foods, foods high in fiber and alcohol. Increase your liquid intake with water, broth and herbal teas to prevent dehydration. Avoid the use of over-the-counter anti-diarrhea drugs.
