Fructose intake at current levels in the United States may cause gastrointestinal distress in normal adults.

摘要

The intake of fructose in various forms by US consumers has risen markedly in the past few years, primarily as a result of the increased use of high-fructose corn syrup in confectionery and soft drinks. This study determined the frequency of fructose malabsorption and gastrointestinal symptoms in normal, healthy adults. Subjects were given 25 g and 50 g doses of crystalline fructose with water after fasting overnight; breath hydrogen tests were used to assess fructose absorption. Results showed that more than 50% of adults tested revealed evidence of fructose malabsorption after 25 g fructose, while over two-thirds showed malabsorption after the 50 g dose. Overall breath hydrogen response was significantly higher after the 50 g dose. These results suggest that commonly consumed fructose amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal distress in healthy adults.