Understanding Fructose Intolerance: Symptoms, Causes & Dietary Management

Fructose intolerance disorder, also called hereditary fructose intolerance, is a genetic condition which prevents the body from properly digesting fructose. Eating foods with fructose can lead to abdominal pain and vomiting.

Cause

• Individuals with fructose intolerance lack a properly functioning metabolic enzyme called fructose-1-phosphate aldolase. Without it, fructose-1-phosphate builds up in the liver, kidney and small intestine.

Effects

• Fructose-1-phosphate prevents the production of glucose, leading to an extremely low blood sugar level. A build up of fructose-1-phosphate causes liver and kidney failure, which can lead to death.

Diagnosis

• A hydrogen breath test and stool analysis are tools used by doctors to diagnosis fructose intolerance. Keeping a record of the foods you eat and the resulting symptoms can help identify the disorder.

Treatment

• Individuals with fructose intolerance must eat a fructose-free diet. Liver damage resulting from fructose intolerance usually requires liver transplant surgery.

Diet

• A fructose-free diet can include red meat, chicken, butter, margarine, eggs, milk, nuts, pasta, rice, fish, cheese, peppers, lettuce and spinach.