Hereditary fructose intolerance, or HFI, is a genetic disorder that is inherited, and can be detected during infancy. A widespread condition throughout Europe and America, fructose intolerance happens when the body is missing a protein called aldolase B, an enzyme needed to break down fructose in the body, the HFI Laboratory at Boston University notes. HFI may be difficult to diagnose, but it exhibits a series of symptoms.
Repeated Vomiting
If you have hereditary fructose intolerance, vomiting can trigger right after eating high-fructose foods. You can avoid undergoing this symptom by following a strict non-fructose diet. Avoid high-fructose corn syrup, table sugar or sucrose, confectionery or powdered sugar and honey. When drinking, avoid sodas, flavored water, sports drinks and sweetened milk, MayoClinic.com advises. Vegetables and fruits such as oranges, apples and pears are known to have high natural fructose levels. Observing what you eat will promote longevity and good health.
Abdominal Pains
Fructose intolerance can cause severe abdominal pain. The abdominal pain occurs soon after eating a meal that contained even a small amount of fructose. The best way to prevent this symptom is to properly manage your diet. A full understanding of the foods you can and cannot have is essential in managing fructose intolerance, Johns Hopkins University explains. Consult a registered dietitian for a proper diet regimen that suits your preference and lifestyle.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is another symptom associated with hereditary fructose intolerance. Patients with fructose intolerance are unable to convert fructose into glucose, which is the main form of sugar in the bloodstream. As glucose levels drop, patients will develop hypoglycemia, which can manifest as fatigue, irritability, nausea and loss of consciousness.
Weight Gain
Fructose intolerance may interfere with your body's ability to metabolize glucose. The excess levels of glucose are then converted into fatty deposits and stored in adipose, or fat, tissue. Therefore, fructose intolerance, by inhibiting glucose metabolism, can lead to weight gain, as noted in a May 2009 article in the "World Journal of Gastroenterology." To avoid unwanted weight gain, you may need to adjust your diet and increase your exercise regimen. Consult your physician prior to starting a new workout routine.
References
- HFI Laboratory at Boston University: Specifics of HFI and Its Diagnosis
- MayoClinic.com: High Fructose Foods; March 26, 2011
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; Hypoglycemia; October 2008
- Johns Hopkins University; Fructose Intolerance, Hereditary; Cassandra L. Kniffin April 2009
- "World Journal of Gastroenterology"; Adult hereditary fructose intolerance; Mohamed Ismail Yasawy et al; May 2009
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